At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert financial advice and support to managers across the Council.
- Company: Cumberland Council, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Shape financial processes and improve value for money in your community.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified AAT or part-qualified CCAB/CIMA accountant with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Cumberland Council is looking to appoint a Principal Finance Officer who possesses strong technical and analytical skills to join our Finance team. The role contributes to budget setting, ongoing budget monitoring, and year‑end processes, providing accurate financial information to support informed decision‑making across services. You will play a key role in supporting the Finance Manager to deliver flexible and professional financial services that enable effective budget management and informed decision‑making across the Council. The role is offered on a hybrid working basis, combining remote work with on‑site attendance at our Council offices across Carlisle, Workington, or Whitehaven.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert financial advice and support to managers across the Council.
- Maintain accurate accounting records and complete financial statements, grant claims, and returns.
- Build strong business‑partnering relationships with service managers.
- Deliver training and coaching to improve financial skills and budget management.
- Support the development of reports, business cases, and options papers ensuring financial implications are clear and accurate.
Qualifications
- Fully qualified AAT or part‑qualified CCAB/CIMA accountant.
- Strong technical knowledge of accounting standards and practices.
- Excellent communication and analytical skills.
- Ability to work flexibly and collaboratively to meet deadlines.
Benefits
You’ll help shape financial processes and support cultural change to improve value for money across the Council. We offer a supportive environment, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a real impact. This role is available on a permanent basis.
EEO & Inclusion
We are a proud Disability Confident Employer and an Age Friendly Employer, dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with the Equality Act 2010.
Finance Partner & Budget Strategist - Hybrid in Carlisle employer: Cumberland Council
Cumberland Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on financial processes and budget management. With opportunities for professional development and a commitment to diversity, including being a proud Disability Confident Employer, you will thrive in a culture that values collaboration and innovation while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working across our beautiful locations in Carlisle, Workington, or Whitehaven.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Partner & Budget Strategist - Hybrid in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial practices. Show us that you understand their budget management processes and can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight how your skills align with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your financial advice delivery! Whether it’s through mock interviews or casual chats with friends, being able to communicate complex financial concepts clearly is key. We want to see you shine when discussing your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Partner & Budget Strategist - Hybrid in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our Finance team, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires strong technical knowledge, be sure to mention your qualifications and any specific accounting standards you’re familiar with. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their expertise clearly.
Communicate Clearly:Your written application should reflect your excellent communication skills. Keep it concise and professional, but let your personality shine through. We appreciate a bit of flair as long as it’s relevant!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumberland Council
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge and be ready to discuss key accounting standards and practices. Make sure you can explain how these apply to budget setting and monitoring, as this will show your technical expertise.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex financial information to non-financial managers. This is crucial for building strong business-partnering relationships, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Collaboration
Think of instances where you've worked collaboratively to meet tight deadlines or adapted to changing circumstances. Highlighting your ability to work flexibly will resonate well with the Council's needs.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Have a few insightful questions ready about the Finance team’s current challenges or future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals.
