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- Tasks: Support financial reporting, provide advice, and prepare forecasts in a dynamic finance team.
- Company: Join Cheshire West and Chester Council, dedicated to public service and community wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, flexible working, and a range of wellbeing perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local services while developing your finance skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and strong analytical skills; experience in public sector finance is a plus.
- Other info: Work from home with occasional travel; inclusive workplace culture prioritising growth and support.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and detail-orientated Finance Officer to support the Technical Accounting & VAT Team or the finance business partnering function across Strategic Commissioning and Public Health. Finance Officers play a key role in providing financial advice, preparing forecasts, and supporting financial reporting, including statutory returns.
This is an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in public sector finance, support the delivery of key services and play a vital role in ensuring financial sustainability and performance across the Council.
The roles
We welcome applications from individuals with a passion for public service finance, whether you\’re looking to build your expertise or bring experience from another sector. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the financial sustainability and performance of vital Council services.
You will be joining a high performing finance team who are committed to delivering value for money for the residents of Cheshire West and Chester Council. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported to thrive, regardless of background or career stage.
We are currently recruiting to Finance Officer roles in the following areas:
- Technical and Accounting VAT Team
- Finance Business Partnering – Adult Social Care, Strategic Commissioning & Public Health
Finance Officers play a key role in providing financial advice, preparing forecasts, and supporting financial reporting, including statutory returns. The role requires strong organisational skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and confidence in building effective working relationships across finance and service teams.
Some posts may include line management responsibilities, including day-to-day supervision and development of staff.
The candidate
We welcome candidates from a range of backgrounds. You will ideally be educated to degree level (or equivalent) and a CCAB Qualified Accountant (desirable) or actively completing professional studies with experience at a local authority, NHS organisation or similar public sector organisation, although applications from candidates in other sectors who can demonstrate a desire to move into local government are welcomed. Experience in Technical Accounting & VAT or Adult Social Care is highly beneficial.
Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to present financial data clearly are essential. Excellent communication skills, a proactive approach to change, and a collaborative mindset will help you succeed in this role. We value motivation, adaptability, and a commitment to delivering high-quality service to our communities.
In return you will be playing your part to make a difference to our colleague experience at a high performing Council. You will also receive 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays after 5 years’ service, the ability to work flexibly, and have access to a range of benefits in terms of reward, wellbeing, and development.
Location: Agile Worker – working from home with occasional travel to workspaces across the Borough of Cheshire West and Chester.
To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Louisa Taylor, Senior Finance Manager Adult Social Care & Public Health on louisa.taylor@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or Catrin Evans, Finance Manager (Technical Accounting and VAT) on catrin.evans@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
Interviews are likely to be held week commencing 25th August 2025.
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Finance Officer employer: Cheshire West and Chester
Contact Detail:
Cheshire West and Chester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and practices relevant to public sector finance. Understanding the nuances of local authority finance, especially in areas like Technical Accounting and VAT, will give you a significant edge during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in public sector finance. Engaging with current Finance Officers or attending relevant workshops can provide insights into the role and help you build connections that may support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your analytical skills and how you've used them in previous roles. Be ready to share examples of how you've presented financial data clearly and effectively, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to the contacts provided in the job description for an informal chat about the role. This shows initiative and gives you a chance to ask questions that can help tailor your approach when applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Finance Officer role. Emphasise your analytical skills, attention to detail, and any experience in public sector finance or similar environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for public service finance. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide financial advice, prepare forecasts, and support financial reporting.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a degree or are a CCAB Qualified Accountant, make this clear in your application. If you're actively completing professional studies, mention this as well, especially if you have experience in Technical Accounting & VAT or Adult Social Care.
Showcase Soft Skills: In your application, highlight your communication skills, proactive approach to change, and ability to work collaboratively. These traits are essential for building effective working relationships across finance and service teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cheshire West and Chester
✨Understand Public Sector Finance
Familiarise yourself with the principles of public sector finance, especially in relation to local authorities. Be prepared to discuss how your background or studies relate to financial sustainability and performance in a public service context.
✨Showcase Analytical Skills
Highlight your analytical skills by preparing examples of how you've used data to inform financial decisions. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you ensure accuracy in financial reporting.
✨Demonstrate Communication Abilities
Effective communication is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully communicated complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders in the past, showcasing your ability to build relationships across teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would approach them, particularly in areas like VAT and technical accounting.
