Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management for exciting regeneration and housing projects in London.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, a forward-thinking local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real community impact.
- Why this job: Shape strategic investment decisions that support local communities and tackle climate challenges.
- Qualifications: CCAB-qualified accountant or equivalent experience with strong capital finance background.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Accountant (Development / Projects) to play a pivotal role in supporting the Council’s ambitious capital, regeneration and affordable housing programmes. You will provide high-quality, solution-focused financial advice across complex development, regeneration and mixed-use investment schemes – from early appraisal and business case development through to delivery, monitoring and closure. Working closely with senior leaders, Members and key stakeholders, you will help ensure strong financial performance, value for money and effective risk management. This is a highly influential role, offering the opportunity to shape strategic capital investment decisions that directly support the borough’s communities and long-term priorities, including our response to the climate and ecological emergency.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the financial management of significant regeneration, affordable housing and mixed‑use capital schemes.
- Prepare and evaluate robust business cases supported by detailed financial modelling, appraisal, sensitivity and commercial analysis.
- Provide clear, professional financial advice and challenge to senior officers, Members and decision‑makers.
- Support strategic reviews, procurements and investment decisions, identifying financial implications and risks.
- Contribute to the Council’s Capital Programme and Medium Term Financial Strategy through high‑quality financial analysis and modelling.
- Lead on complex statutory and financial returns, grants and audit requirements.
- Ensure strong budgetary control, in‑year monitoring, forecasting and closing of accounts for allocated areas.
- Build effective relationships with internal teams and external partners to optimise outcomes and resources.
- Promote continuous improvement, innovation and best practice in financial management.
About You
You will be a CCAB‑qualified accountant (or part‑qualified with relevant experience, or an Accounting Technician with significant experience) with a strong background in capital and development finance. Experience in local government, housing association finance, or a similarly complex organisation. Strong knowledge of housing development finance, appraisal methodologies, funding and risk management. A sound understanding of local authority accounting, financial legislation and professional codes of practice. Proven experience of financial modelling, business case development and strategic financial analysis. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial issues clearly to non‑specialists. Strong IT skills, including advanced Excel and financial reporting tools. The confidence and credibility to influence senior stakeholders and represent the Council externally.
The Process
The London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham are working in partnership with Hammond Clarke in the recruitment of this role. Should you wish to find out more before applying, please reach out directly to Chris Macdonald on cm@hc-exec.co.uk or 0203 762 2207.
Principal Accountant - Regeneration & Development employer: Hammersmith & Fulham Council
Contact Detail:
Hammersmith & Fulham Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Accountant - Regeneration & Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and development sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial modelling and appraisal methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex financial challenges in the past, as this will show your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send 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 Principal Accountant role. We’re always looking for talented individuals who can contribute to our ambitious projects and make a real difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Accountant - Regeneration & Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Accountant role. Highlight your experience in capital and development finance, and don’t forget to showcase your skills in financial modelling and strategic analysis. We want to see how you can bring value to our ambitious projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to regeneration and affordable housing, and show us your passion for making a difference in the community.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be working closely with senior leaders and stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. In your application, give examples of how you've explained complex financial issues to non-specialists. We love clear and concise communicators!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and let us know why you’re excited about this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hammersmith & Fulham Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Principal Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used financial modelling and analysis in past projects. This will show that you can provide the high-quality financial advice they’re looking for.
✨Understand the Role's Impact
Familiarise yourself with the Council’s capital, regeneration, and affordable housing programmes. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their strategic priorities, especially regarding climate and ecological considerations.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex financial situations. Think of examples where you've successfully managed budgets or provided financial advice under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with senior leaders and stakeholders, practice how you would communicate complex financial issues clearly. Show that you can build effective relationships and influence decision-makers by sharing examples of past collaborations.
