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- Tasks: Lead financial management and support strategic decision-making across the organisation.
- Company: Local authority committed to effective financial governance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and potential for hybrid working in the future.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and professional development in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategies and help shape the future of local services.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified accountant with strong financial management skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
A local authority is looking to appoint an experienced Principal Accountant to deliver a comprehensive financial management and accountancy service across the organisation. This is a key role supporting revenue budget monitoring, annual budget setting, medium-term financial planning, statutory accounts and financial reporting. The successful candidate will work closely with senior managers, the Finance Manager, auditors and wider services to provide professional financial advice, challenge budgets and support strategic decision making.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and supporting budget monitoring and forecasting processes
- Assisting with the annual budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy
- Producing and supporting year-end accounts and statutory returns
- Liaising with internal and external auditors
- Providing financial guidance on projects, initiatives and service planning
- Supporting committee reports and financial compliance
- Supervising and supporting finance team staff
- Bank administration, BACS and payment responsibilities
Essential requirements:
- CCAB qualified accountant
- Strong accountancy and financial management background
- Experience in budgeting, forecasting and annual accounts
- Ability to interpret complex financial legislation and explain financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders
- Excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills
Desirable:
- Local government finance experience
- CIPFA qualification
- Experience with capital accounting, treasury management, VAT, payroll or council tax/business rates
Working hours: Monday to Thursday - 8:30am to 5:00pm, Friday - 8:30am to 4:45pm. This role is fully office based initially, with hybrid working potentially considered in the future for the right candidate.
Principal Accountant in Bideford employer: Hatched Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
Hatched Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Accountant in Bideford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in local government. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what the hiring managers are really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial legislation knowledge. Be ready to explain complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to communicate effectively with non-financial stakeholders. Practice makes perfect, so consider mock interviews with friends or mentors.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! If you've supervised finance teams before, be sure to highlight this experience during interviews. Discuss how you’ve supported your team and contributed to successful budget monitoring and forecasting processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Let’s get you that Principal Accountant role!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Accountant in Bideford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in financial management and accountancy. We want to see how your skills match the key responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your budgeting and forecasting expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Principal Accountant role. We love seeing candidates who can clearly communicate their understanding of financial legislation and how they can support strategic decision-making.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your CCAB qualification and any other relevant certifications. We’re looking for someone with a strong accountancy background, so make sure we know about your qualifications right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hatched Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Principal Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial concepts, budgeting processes, and any relevant legislation. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and forecasting in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
You'll be liaising with various stakeholders, so it's crucial to convey complex financial information clearly. Prepare examples of how you've explained financial data to non-financial colleagues or clients. This will highlight your ability to bridge the gap between finance and other departments.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of specific situations where you had to challenge budgets or provide financial guidance on projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Research the Organisation
Understanding the local authority's financial landscape is key. Familiarise yourself with their recent financial reports, budget priorities, and any challenges they face. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.