At a Glance
- Tasks: Support high-quality finance services and manage financial queries.
- Company: Join Bracknell Forest Council, a stable and supportive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Friendly environment with a focus on inclusivity and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative team while balancing work and life.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and experience with Microsoft Excel required.
The predicted salary is between 24934 - 29303 £ per year.
We have an opportunity for a Finance Officer to join our team on a part‑time, fixed‑term basis as maternity cover. The role supports the delivery of an effective and high‑quality finance service, helping to ensure accurate financial administration, monitoring and reporting across key service areas.
At Bracknell Forest, we pride ourselves on being a stable and well‑managed council where employees can thrive in a supportive environment. We understand the importance of a healthy work‑life balance and offer a variety of flexible working practices, including remote working and arrangements that allow you to work from home. This is up to 12‑month maternity cover on fixed‑term basis or up to 12‑month secondment for internal staff. Any successful internal candidate will be offered the position as a secondment and, in line with Section 8.1 of the Secondment Policy, must consult with their manager before applying. The role includes an expectation to work from our Time Square office 1 day per week, alongside flexible working arrangements.
We are looking for a dynamic and motivated individual to join our accountancy team as a Finance Officer. In this position, you will utilise your knowledge and experience to help deliver a high‑quality finance function. The successful candidate will be a team player with strong organisational skills, excellent communication and confidence in using various ICT tools. You will also have experience with different functionalities on Microsoft Excel.
You will join a friendly, collaborative and fast‑paced accountancy team that supports services across the council. We are known for our professional approach and strong commitment to delivering high‑quality financial support. You will work closely with experienced colleagues and report to the Finance Business Partner – Communities. The team is based at Time Square, with hybrid working arrangements supporting a positive work‑life balance.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare timely and accurate information to enable accurate recording and monitoring of expenditure and income.
- Assist in the effective control of the council’s financial affairs.
- Manage the relevant email drop boxes and investigate financial queries by using appropriate financial systems.
- Support the financial administration of various areas including homeless and temporary accommodation.
- Provide support to services and senior accountancy officers by undertaking various system reconciliations.
- Assist in the preparation of government returns, statistics and other financial information.
Position Details
- Part‑time, 30 hours per week, maternity cover up to 12 months, fixed‑term contract
- Salary: £24,934 – £29,303 per year for 30 hours per week (inclusive of London Weighting: £30,753 – £36,141 per year for a full‑time equivalent)
- Location: Time Square, Bracknell (Hybrid working)
- Contract: Temporary (Part‑time)
- DBS Check: No
- Closing Date: 21/05/2026 at 23:59
- Reference: RS/26/336877
Benefits
- 25 days* annual leave increasing to 28 days* after 3 years’ continuous service, with the opportunity to buy up to 10 and sell up to 5 days*.
- Hybrid working opportunities to support wellbeing and work‑life balance.
- Paid employee volunteering scheme.
- Local government pension scheme, with life insurance cover.
- Recognition of continuous service within NHS and UKHSA when calculating some benefits (Terms and Conditions apply).
- Career development through internal and external training opportunities.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing.
- Inclusive and social working environment with staff networks and a sports and social club. (pro rata for part time)
Our Values
At Bracknell Forest Council, our values define who we are and what is important to us. Our core values are inclusive, ambitious, and always learning. These values influence the way we work with each other and the way we serve our residents and engage with our communities. We make our values real by demonstrating them in how we behave every day. If you are excited about joining a diverse team that celebrates learning and strives for excellence, we would love to hear from you.
Reasonable Adjustments
We are committed to ensuring an inclusive recruitment process for all applicants. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know by contacting recruitment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk. We will work with you to support you throughout the process.
Interview Details
Interviews will be held week commencing 8th June 2026. Interviews will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to personally meet the team and experience our work environment. We will review applications regularly and reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified.
Contact
Laura Cooper, Finance Business Partner – Communities – 01344 352273.
Equal Opportunities
Bracknell Forest Council – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
How to Apply
Please apply online via the link provided.
Finance Officer (part-time 30 hours per week, maternity cover up to 12 months fixed term contract) employer: Bracknell Forest Council
Bracknell Forest Council is an excellent employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work environment, offering flexible working arrangements to promote a healthy work-life balance. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, career development opportunities, and a strong commitment to wellbeing through initiatives like the Employee Assistance Programme. Joining our dynamic accountancy team means being part of a collaborative culture that values continuous learning and professional growth, all while serving the community from our modern Time Square office.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer (part-time 30 hours per week, maternity cover up to 12 months fixed term contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know someone at Bracknell Forest. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your Excel skills and financial knowledge. Be ready to showcase how you can contribute to the team’s high-quality finance function. Practice common interview questions and think of examples that highlight your organisational skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our supportive and dynamic team at Bracknell Forest.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer (part-time 30 hours per week, maternity cover up to 12 months fixed term contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for the Finance Officer role. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing your financial expertise!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in Microsoft Excel and any other ICT tools you’re comfortable with. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve used these skills in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff. This will help us see your potential quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our team and values!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bracknell Forest Council
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge and be ready to discuss key concepts relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with common financial terms and practices, especially those mentioned in the job description, like financial administration and reporting.
✨Excel Skills Are Key
Since the role requires confidence in using Microsoft Excel, make sure you can demonstrate your proficiency. Prepare to discuss specific functionalities you've used, such as pivot tables or VLOOKUP, and consider bringing examples of your work if possible.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This position is all about collaboration, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team. Highlight your communication skills and any experiences where you supported colleagues or contributed to group projects.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the council's values, or the specific challenges the finance department faces. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
