At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial services, budget setting, and provide expert advice to senior officers.
- Company: Join Folkestone & Hythe District Council, a forward-thinking local authority.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, up to 31 days leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values customer service and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while shaping financial strategy.
- Qualifications: AAT qualification or CCAB part-qualified, with finance experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 28350 - 34650 £ per year.
Are you a finance professional looking for an opportunity to make a real difference within a forward-thinking local authority? At Folkestone & Hythe District Council, we're seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Accountant to join our Finance Team. This is an exciting opportunity to support the delivery of high-quality financial services across the Council and its subsidiary companies, helping to shape financial strategy, support key projects and provide expert financial advice to senior officers and elected members.
Working closely with service managers and budget holders, you'll play a key role in budget setting, financial monitoring, statutory reporting, final accounts preparation and financial planning. You'll also support the development of an Assistant Accountant and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement across the finance function.
About You
- AAT qualification as a minimum, or CCAB part-qualified status
- Significant recent experience in a finance environment, ideally within local government
- Experience of budget setting, monitoring and year-end accounts
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to explain financial information to non-finance colleagues
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- A proactive approach, attention to detail and commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
Why Join Us?
We're one of the area's largest employers and are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive and rewarding workplace. Some of the benefits of working with us include:
- Flexible, agile and hybrid working
- Up to 31 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Birthday leave and Christmas office closure
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Reimbursement of professional membership subscriptions
- Cycle to Work and lease car salary sacrifice schemes
Our Values
At FHDC, our values are Customer First, One Team, Thinking Ahead and Performance Counts. We're looking for people who share these values and are passionate about delivering excellent services for our communities. Join us and help shape the financial future of Folkestone & Hythe.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Sunday 20th September 2026. Please note: This vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of applications. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 30th September & Thursday 1st October 2026.
Accountant in Folkestone employer: Folkestone Hythe
Folkestone & Hythe District Council is an excellent employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and development, offering flexible working arrangements and a generous leave package, including up to 31 days of annual leave plus additional benefits. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, the council fosters a collaborative work culture where your contributions directly impact the local community, making this role not just a job, but a meaningful career opportunity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accountant in Folkestone
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Folkestone Hythe. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Accountant in Folkestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Folkestone Hythe.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Folkestone Hythe's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Folkestone Hythe
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Folkestone Hythe.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Folkestone Hythe will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Folkestone Hythe employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
