At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide proactive financial support and advice across various service areas.
- Company: Local authority in London with a focus on community service.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local government finance while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in management accounting and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
6 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
The Service Accountant will provide high-quality, proactive, and customer-focused financial support to a range of service areas within the organisation. The role will support budget management, financial planning, monitoring, and accounts closure processes while delivering informed financial advice, identifying financial risks, and supporting operational decision-making across the Council.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the delivery of the annual budget cycle, including budget setting, budget monitoring, and accounts closure for both capital and revenue budgets.
- Provide proactive financial advice, challenge, and guidance to budget holders and managers.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal departments and external stakeholders.
- Produce accurate financial information, reports, statistical returns, and responses to information requests including Freedom of Information requests.
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations, controls, standing orders, accounting standards, and legislative requirements.
- Monitor financial performance and identify emerging financial risks and mitigation strategies.
- Support project work by providing financial expertise and analysis.
- Deputise for the Group Accountant when required, including supervision of Accountancy Assistants.
- Coach and support junior finance staff to develop technical knowledge and professional capability.
- Contribute to continuous improvement and maintain awareness of developments within local government finance.
Requirements
- Experience working within a customer-focused management accounting environment.
- Experience of budget setting, budget monitoring, and accounts closure processes across capital and revenue budgets.
- Experience supporting budget holders and delivering financial advice to operational services.
- Advanced spreadsheet and financial analysis skills.
- Understanding of local government finance and public sector services.
- Ability to analyse financial information, assess risks, and support decision-making.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex financial information to a wide range of stakeholders.
- Experience building positive relationships across internal and external stakeholder groups.
- Ability to work independently while recognising when issues require escalation.
- Fully qualified AAT, part-qualified CCAB, or equivalent experience within a large accounting environment.
Additional Information
- Hours per week: 36 - 37 hours (standard full-time)
- Payment schedule: Bi-weekly payments
- Location: London Borough of Hackney / hybrid working as required
Service Accountant in Hackney employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
As a Service Accountant with the London Borough of Hackney, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises professional growth and development. The Council fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, offering employees the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts the community. With flexible hybrid working arrangements and a commitment to continuous improvement, this role provides an excellent platform for those looking to advance their careers in public sector finance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Accountant in Hackney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with local authorities. They might have insider info on job openings or can even refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial knowledge and local government regulations. We recommend practising common interview questions related to budget management and financial advice to show you're the right fit.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Service Accountant role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Accountant in Hackney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in budget management and financial analysis, as these are key for the Service Accountant role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've provided financial advice or supported budget holders in the past.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong communication is crucial, make sure to demonstrate your ability to explain complex financial information clearly. This could be through examples in your CV or cover letter.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Civic Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around budget setting and monitoring. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed budgets or provided financial advice.
✨Build Relationships
Since the role involves working with various stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Prepare anecdotes that showcase your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with both internal teams and external partners.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to talk about how you've analysed financial information in the past. Think of instances where you've identified risks or provided insights that influenced decision-making. Highlight your advanced spreadsheet skills and any tools you’ve used.
✨Stay Updated on Local Government Finance
Familiarise yourself with current trends and regulations in local government finance. This will not only show your commitment to continuous improvement but also help you answer questions about compliance and legislative requirements confidently.
