At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance team, manage accounts, and provide expert financial advice.
- Company: Join Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, a supportive public sector organisation.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, health care options, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Great opportunities for learning and development in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local governance while developing your finance career.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified Accountant with significant finance experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 53460 - 63013 £ per year.
Location: Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX
Salary: £53,460 - £63,013 per annum (pro rata for part time)
Hours: Full Time, 37 hours per week (open to part time and job share)
Contract: Permanent
We are looking for a Senior Financial Accountant to join the Finance team at Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. The role is a core part of the Finance Management Team and reports directly to the Head of Finance.
Key Responsibilities
- Assume day‑to‑day management of the Financial Control team with direct responsibility for three members and a wider team of eight.
- Lead on the delivery of the Statement of Accounts and transform processes to ensure a strong internal control environment.
- Provide expert financial advice to the Finance Team and across the organisation.
- Develop, review and improve financial strategies, policies and procedures.
- Support the Head of Finance in writing and reporting on the Treasury, Capital and Investment Strategies for both councils.
- Work with the Systems team to ensure smooth and timely reporting from the finance system and enable self‑service tools for managers for budget management and forecasting.
Qualifications & Experience
- Fully qualified Accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, CIPFA) with significant finance experience, preferably supporting service teams within the public sector or a multi‑disciplinary sector.
- Corporate financial management experience, able to deliver the Statement of Accounts to tight deadlines and liaise effectively with external auditors.
- Excellent communication skills, experienced in reviewing business cases and financial appraisals, and providing expert advice and recommendations.
- Comfortable dealing with people at all levels and functioning in a complex and sometimes challenging operating environment.
- Experienced team leader, personable and patient, able to motivate and create a positive working environment.
- Focused on delivery, striving for excellence and continual improvement of the finance service.
Benefits
- Generous leave entitlement (26 days per year, progressing to 31 days after 5 years).
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Well‑being support and Employee Assistance Programme.
- Private Health Care Options.
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
- Paid volunteering days.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (business needs permitting).
- Great learning and development opportunities.
Closing Date: 12 June 2026 at 5:00 pm.
Senior Financial Accountant in Ipswich employer: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous leave entitlements, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to continuous improvement, this role as a Senior Financial Accountant provides the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the community while enjoying a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
Contact Details:
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Financial Accountant in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who work in public services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've transformed processes in previous roles and how you can bring that expertise to Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! During interviews, make sure to highlight your experience in liaising with different levels of staff and external auditors. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a complex environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to the finance service.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Financial Accountant in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Financial Accountant role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in financial management and team leadership, to show us you’re the perfect fit for our Finance team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you want to join Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. Share your passion for finance and how your skills can help us improve our financial strategies and processes.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications! Being a fully qualified Accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, CIPFA) is key, so make sure we see that front and centre in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Financial Accountant, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed financial controls in previous roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with the numbers but can also apply them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams in the past. Talk about your approach to motivating team members and creating a positive work environment. This will highlight your ability to manage and inspire others.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into financial strategies, policies, and procedures. Review the Statement of Accounts process and be ready to discuss how you would improve it. This demonstrates your proactive approach and understanding of the role's requirements.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are crucial for this position. Practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will show that you can effectively communicate with stakeholders at all levels, which is essential for providing expert advice across the organisation.
