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- Tasks: Lead financial reporting and ensure compliance with accounting standards for the Council.
- Company: Bracknell Forest Council, known for innovation and strong financial management.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and financial transparency.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified accountant with local authority financial reporting experience.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a diverse, inclusive team culture.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
If you are a senior accountant looking for a role with real influence and flexibility, this could be your next step. This newly created role reflects the importance of strong financial reporting, governance and statutory compliance in an increasingly challenging local government finance environment. As our Head of Financial Reporting, you will take strategic ownership of how the Council demonstrates transparency, accountability and value for money, embedding high standards that will endure well beyond annual reporting cycles.
Working closely with senior leadership, your judgement, leadership and technical credibility will be highly visible, trusted and influential at the highest level of the organisation. Bracknell Forest Council is a financially well-managed authority with a strong track record of innovation and improvement. We offer a supportive and professional finance team, flexible and hybrid working arrangements and the opportunity to play a key role in shaping the Council’s financial reporting and governance arrangements.
As our Head of Financial Reporting, you will:
- Lead on the preparation of the Council’s Statement of Accounts, including liaison with external auditors.
- Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, codes of practice, and statutory reporting requirements.
- Support the s151 Officer in discharging statutory responsibilities.
Qualifications: You will be a CCAB qualified accountant with significant local authority financial reporting experience and strong technical accounting knowledge, including experience of closedown and audit. You will be confident operating at senior level and able to explain complex financial issues clearly to senior officers and councillors. You will be highly organised and able to motivate others to deliver to tight timescales.
At Bracknell Forest Council, our values – inclusive, ambitious and always learning – shape how we work and how we support our communities. We live these values every day, and if you want to join a diverse, learning-focused service that strives for excellence, we’d love to hear from you.
Benefits:
- 28 days annual leave increasing to 33 days after 3 years’ continuous service, with the opportunity to buy up to 10 and sell up to 5 days.
- Career development through internal and external training opportunities.
- 1 day paid volunteering leave a year.
- Local government pension scheme, with life insurance cover.
- Recognition of continuous service attained within the NHS and UKHSA when calculating some benefits. (Terms and Conditions apply)
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support your health and wellbeing.
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme (subject to eligibility).
- Inclusive and social working environment with a variety of staff networks and a sports and social club.
Interviews will be held on 16 April 2026. Interviews will be held in person, giving you the opportunity to meet the team and get a real feel for our working environment.
Head of Financial Reporting in Bracknell employer: Bracknell Forest Council
Contact Detail:
Bracknell Forest Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Reporting in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with local authorities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of financial reporting standards and local government finance. We want you to be able to discuss how you can bring transparency and accountability to the Council's financial practices.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've motivated teams or influenced senior management decisions. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate how you can make an impact at Bracknell Forest Council.
✨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 inclusive and ambitious team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Financial Reporting in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Head of Financial Reporting role. Highlight your local authority financial reporting experience and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead and influence at a senior level.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about financial reporting and how your values align with ours at Bracknell Forest Council. Be sure to mention your technical accounting knowledge and how you can contribute to our goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, don’t forget to highlight your leadership experience. We want to see how you've motivated teams and managed tight deadlines in the past. Share specific examples that demonstrate your judgement and credibility in financial matters.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, you’ll ensure your application reaches us quickly and you can easily keep track of your application status. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bracknell Forest Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Financial Reporting, you’ll need to demonstrate your technical accounting knowledge. Brush up on relevant accounting standards and statutory reporting requirements before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and the ability to motivate others. Prepare examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your experience in liaising with senior leadership and external auditors.
✨Understand the Council's Values
Bracknell Forest Council values inclusivity, ambition, and continuous learning. Familiarise yourself with these values and think about how your personal values align with them. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these principles in your work.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Council’s financial reporting processes and future challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.