At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide financial advice and support for capital budget management and project initiatives.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving community lives.
- Benefits: Flexible work-life balance, competitive pay, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your accounting career.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Opportunities for line management and career growth 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.
About the role
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. 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. We operate a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council's at-risk register (redeployee). 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.
Group Accountant - Capital 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 Group Accountant - Capital in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who work 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 brushing up on your financial management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've driven improvements in previous roles and how you can bring that expertise to the Group Accountant position.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your Excel skills! Bring examples of financial models you've created or worked with. This will demonstrate your technical prowess and make you stand out as a candidate.
✨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 the team at Bath & North East Somerset Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Accountant - Capital 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!
Show Off 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 over jargon. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can make complex concepts easy to understand!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. Given the high demand for this role, we recommend applying as soon as possible through our website. This way, you’ll ensure your application is considered before the advert closes!
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 share experiences where you've collaborated with Budget Managers or Directors. Highlight how you’ve built effective working relationships and supported them in achieving their project outcomes while staying within budget.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As this role involves line management, think about times when you've led a team or mentored others. Be ready to discuss your approach to developing talent and how you can contribute to the growth of a Career Grade Accountant.