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- Tasks: Support the finance team by preparing budgets, financial statements, and grant claims.
- Company: Join a dynamic finance team in Edinburgh, dedicated to delivering top-notch accountancy services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model and competitive day rates based on experience.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in local government accounting while working on impactful projects.
- Qualifications: Must be professionally qualified in accountancy (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, CA) with relevant experience.
- Other info: This is a 6-month contract role, starting ASAP, and requires a Basic Disclosure Scotland.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
6 Month Contract | Hybrid | Starting ASAP Day Rate: DOE
Principal Purpose and Objectives
To provide an accountancy support service to a range of customers under the direction of the Finance Team Leader, Finance Lead and Chief Finance Officer.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- To prepare periodic financial monitoring statements that meet the needs of both Service Management and the corporate role of the Accounting Operations function.
- To prepare Revenue and Capital Budgets.
- To support corporate and service-based projects in relation to financial matters associated with those projects.
- To review, maintain and develop financial aspects of financial and information systems.
- To provide and maintain appropriate information and advice relevant to the nature of the post.
- To advise on specialist areas (e.g. capital, VAT).
- To prepare grant claims, returns and statistics.
- To prepare information for the Annual Accounts in accordance with the Accounting Code of Practice.
- To monitor and keep up to date with policy, legislative and accounting developments and to advise on implications as appropriate.
- To assist the Finance Team Leader and Finance Lead in the management and administration of the team.
- To undertake other duties commensurate with the post as and when required.
Interpretation of data
Required to handle complex information, analyse problems, think ahead and contribute to / find solutions. Required to be flexible, pro-active, problem solver, able to show judgement and common sense. Must understand the business of the Service. Understanding of operational financial and information systems. Work to tight timescales under pressure. Manage competing demands, be able to forward plan / schedule own workload. Dealing with confidential information.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Qualified in a professional accountancy qualification (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, CA).
- Knowledge and understanding of Local Government Accounting practices and procedures.
- Knowledge and understanding of Local Government Capital Accounting.
- Experience of developing management and performance information.
- Knowledge of and development of computerised financial information systems (e.g. financial ledgers, income management systems, management reporting systems).
- To be up to date with accounting legislation with evident continuous professional development.
Desirable:
- Experience and knowledge of local government management and organisational skills.
- Degree or equivalent.
- Supervisory experience.
- Project Management skills.
- Experience in the development of financial processes and systems.
- Experience in the training of colleagues on financial processes and systems.
- Have used Oracle - ERP.
This role has been deemed Inside IR35 by the client. Applicants must hold, or be happy to apply for, a valid Basic Disclosure Scotland.
Accountant in Edinburgh employer: Harvey Nash
Contact Detail:
Harvey Nash Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accountant in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the accounting field, especially those who have experience in local government. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in Local Government Accounting.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial systems mentioned in the job description, such as Oracle ERP. Consider taking a short course or tutorial to enhance your skills and demonstrate your commitment to mastering these tools during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current legislation and accounting practices relevant to local government. Subscribe to newsletters or follow key organisations on social media to ensure you can discuss recent developments confidently in your conversations with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by practising answers to common accounting scenarios, particularly those related to budget preparation and financial monitoring. Use examples from your past experience to illustrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
We think you need these skills to ace Accountant in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your professional accountancy qualifications and relevant experience. Emphasise your knowledge of Local Government Accounting practices and any supervisory or project management skills you possess.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the requirements listed in the job description. Mention your familiarity with financial monitoring statements, budget preparation, and your ability to handle complex information.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly demonstrate your understanding of operational financial systems and your experience with computerised financial information systems. Highlight any experience with Oracle ERP if applicable.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. Ensure that all information is accurate and that your application reflects your best professional self.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harvey Nash
✨Know Your Numbers
As an accountant, it's crucial to be well-versed in financial statements and budgeting. Brush up on your knowledge of local government accounting practices and be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
The role requires handling complex information and finding solutions. Be ready to share specific examples of challenges you've faced in your accounting career and how you successfully resolved them.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Software
Since the job mentions experience with computerised financial information systems, make sure you are comfortable discussing any relevant software you've used, especially Oracle ERP. Highlight your ability to adapt to new systems quickly.
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Abilities
This position involves working closely with a finance team. Prepare to talk about your experience in collaborative environments, how you support your colleagues, and any supervisory roles you've held that showcase your leadership skills.
