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- Tasks: Provide financial advice and support to Budget Managers and Directors.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving lives in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, competitive pay, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local projects while developing your career in finance.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for line management and career development in a diverse workplace.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose - to improve people's lives. We are looking to permanently recruit a credible, experienced Group Accountant to provide financial advice and management account support to the organisation's Budget Managers and Directors.
About the role:
- We are seeking to appoint a Group Accountant to provide a high level of quality financial management in relation to the following functional areas:
- Capital Budget monitoring and assurance
- Supporting the development of business cases and approvals for new initiatives
- Financial advice and support to Budget Managers
- Driving improvements in the way we provide financial support to Project Managers
- Produce final accounts in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards including the production of disclosure notes and supplementary financial analysis
- Prepare and monitor all relevant grant applications, claims and returns in consultation with relevant services and Government departments ensuring full compliance with all statutory and other requirements and respond to queries on behalf of the Service
- Financial controls and governance
About you:
- You will be a 'people person', a strong communicator who can easily build an effective working relationship with Budget Managers, Heads of Service and Directors.
- Plain talking, you will enable them to analyse their spending and forecasts to support them to deliver their Capital Project outcomes whilst working within their allocated budget.
- You should have a full professional accountancy qualification with significant experience.
- This role offers the opportunity of line management and development of a Career Grade Accountant, and as such you will possess the skills needed to fulfil this part of your role.
- You will have advanced Excel skills and have experience of financial models.
- You will also have excellent communication skills to explain technical accounting concepts.
- Whilst you enjoy working in a team, you will also be comfortable working on your own to meet tight deadlines.
If you are interested in this post and require more details or just to chat through the role and what's involved, please contact Giles Oliver, Finance Manager - Project Finance on 01225 477022 or email giles_oliver@bathnes.gov.uk
Interview date: Monday 13th April 2026
No agencies please.
Please note, BANES Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council's at-risk register (redeployee). This means should a redeployee express an interest in this role, providing they meet the essential criteria for the role they will be considered ahead of external applicants.
Please note that this advert may close earlier than the stated closing date due to high demand. We advise all interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.
About Bath and North East Somerset Council. Working at Bath and North East Somerset provides an opportunity to contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the lives of residents. Our values shape how we work to deliver public services, and how we communicate with the residents we serve. We care about the best outcomes for local people, through our public services.
Why Bath and North East Somerset Council? We offer a wide range of benefits, to ensure that you are paid fairly for your work, have the flexibility to enjoy a great work/life balance, and have the support you need.
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us. The Council is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Capital Group Accountant — Public Sector Finance Lead in Bristol employer: Bath and North East Somerset Council
Contact Detail:
Bath and North East Somerset Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Capital Group Accountant — Public Sector Finance Lead in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working at Bath & North East Somerset Council. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate but someone who genuinely cares about improving people's lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role requires explaining complex financial concepts, make sure you can break things down simply and clearly. We want to see how you can connect with Budget Managers and Directors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Bath & North East Somerset Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Capital Group Accountant — Public Sector Finance Lead in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in capital budget monitoring and financial management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your People Skills: Since this role involves working closely with Budget Managers and Directors, it’s essential to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Share examples of how you've built effective working relationships in the past – we love a good people person!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use plain language to explain your technical accounting knowledge, as we appreciate clarity and simplicity in communication.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bath and North East Somerset Council
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around capital budgeting and International Financial Reporting Standards. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles, as this will show your expertise and confidence.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role requires strong communication skills, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated with non-financial colleagues to help them understand their budgets.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Prepare to discuss your experience working collaboratively with Budget Managers and Directors. Highlight instances where you’ve driven improvements in financial support or helped a team meet tight deadlines, showcasing your ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the council's financial strategies or upcoming projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation aligns with your values.