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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Finance team to prepare budgets, reports, and support projects with financial insights.
- Company: ASA Recruitment connects talent with opportunities in Scotland's public sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexibility, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic environment where your skills can shape financial systems and processes.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and experience in local government finance are essential.
- Other info: Initial 6-month contract with potential for extension; occasional travel may be required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Opportunity: Interim Accountant
Location: Stirling / Hybrid Working
ASA are working with a large-scale public sector client who is looking for a skilled and proactive Accountant to join their Finance team on an interim basis. If you thrive in a dynamic public sector environment and enjoy working collaboratively across services, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact.
About the Role
Reporting to the Finance Team Leader, you'll deliver expert accountancy support across a range of services. This includes preparing budgets and financial monitoring reports, supporting projects with financial insight, and helping shape the development of financial systems. You'll also assist with statutory returns and the preparation of annual accounts.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare revenue and capital budgets and periodic monitoring reports
- Support service and corporate projects with financial expertise
- Maintain and develop financial and information systems
- Prepare grant claims, statutory returns, and reports for the Annual Accounts
- Provide advice on specialist areas such as capital accounting and VAT
- Monitor changes in accounting legislation and assess impact
- Provide oversight to Accountancy Assistant support staff
What You'll Bring
Essential:
- Professional accountancy qualification (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, or CA)
- Proven experience in the public sector, specifically within local government finance
- Knowledge of local government accounting practices and capital accounting
- Experience with financial systems, performance reporting, and budget preparation
- Excellent analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills
- Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities
- Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office
Desirable:
- Supervisory and project management experience
- Experience with Oracle ERP systems
- Experience training colleagues on financial systems and processes
- Degree or equivalent qualification
Additional information:
- This is a hybrid role, primarily based in Stirling with flexibility for home working.
- Occasional travel to Council sites may be required.
- Initial 6-month contract (Inside IR35) with potential for extension up to 12 months.
If you're an experienced financial accountant looking for a new opportunity within the public sector apply today or get in touch for further details!
Contact Detail:
ASA Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and practices within the public sector, especially local government finance. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in public sector finance. Attend relevant events or join online forums where you can connect with others in the field. This could lead to valuable insights and even potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your skills with financial software, particularly Oracle ERP systems if you have access to them. Being proficient in these tools can set you apart from other candidates and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with budget preparation and financial reporting in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed these tasks in previous roles, as this will highlight your suitability for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your professional accountancy qualifications and relevant experience in the public sector. Emphasise your skills in budget preparation, financial reporting, and any specific software you are proficient in.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working in the public sector. Mention how your previous experiences align with the key responsibilities of the role, such as preparing budgets and supporting projects with financial insight.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your analytical, organisational, and problem-solving abilities. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in past roles, particularly in local government finance.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an accountant.
How to prepare for a job interview at ASA Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
Make sure to highlight your professional accountancy qualifications, such as CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, or CA. Be prepared to discuss how your qualifications have equipped you for the specific challenges of public sector finance.
✨Demonstrate Relevant Experience
Discuss your proven experience in local government finance and how it relates to the role. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on, particularly those involving budget preparation and financial reporting.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about local government accounting practices and capital accounting. Brush up on relevant legislation and be ready to explain how changes might impact financial systems and reporting.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since the role involves collaboration across services, highlight your interpersonal and communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated financial insights to non-financial stakeholders.
