At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and oversee budget management for Clackmannanshire Council.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking local authority with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive leadership team focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the financial direction of a significant public sector organisation and drive meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Professionally qualified accountant with senior managerial experience in finance.
Your new company
Hays are delighted to be working exclusively once again with Clackmannanshire Council to recruit a Chief Accountant, offering a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking local authority at a senior level. Based at Kilncraigs with hybrid working options, this role sits within the Finance and Revenues Service and plays a critical part in supporting the effective administration of the Council's financial affairs.
Your new role
As Chief Accountant and Deputy (Section 95 Officer), you will operate as a senior member of the extended Management Team, providing leadership, direction, and oversight across the accountancy function. You will support and deputise for the Chief Finance Officer in fulfilling statutory responsibilities, including those aligned to the Section 95 role, and will play a central part in ensuring the Council's financial governance and controls are robust and effective.
You will take responsibility for leading the development and delivery of the Council's budget strategy, managing the annual budget-setting process, and ensuring the organisation maintains a balanced financial position. The role will also involve overseeing the preparation of statutory financial statements and working closely with external auditors during the annual audit process. In addition, you will ensure strong financial management practices are embedded through effective monitoring, reporting, and control of revenue and capital budgets.
In this position, you will lead and develop high-performing finance teams, provide strategic financial advice to senior stakeholders and elected members, and contribute to key areas such as treasury management, governance, and financial strategy. You will also support major projects, business cases, and investment decisions, ensuring compliance with regulations and delivering best value for the organisation. A strong focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and service transformation will be central to your approach.
What you'll need to succeed
To succeed in this role, you will be a professionally qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent) with significant experience operating at a senior managerial level within a financial environment. You will bring strong technical accounting expertise, including the preparation of statutory financial statements, alongside a proven track record of developing strategic financial plans and managing complex revenue and capital budgets.
You will demonstrate strong leadership capability with experience of managing and developing teams, as well as excellent communication and influencing skills, enabling you to build credibility with senior stakeholders and provide effective financial advice. A sound understanding of governance, financial controls, and regulatory frameworks is essential, alongside the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to tight deadlines within a complex and demanding environment.
Experience within the public sector, including knowledge of local government finance or working within a political environment, would be advantageous, as would exposure to treasury management and organisational transformation initiatives.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will secure a high-profile senior leadership role with the opportunity to shape the financial direction of a significant public sector organisation. You will play a key part in strategic decision-making across the organisation while working within a collaborative and supportive senior leadership team. The role offers the chance to drive meaningful change, influence financial strategy, and contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of finance services, all within a flexible working environment that supports hybrid arrangements.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Chief Accountant in Alloa employer: Hays
Clackmannanshire Council is an excellent employer, offering a unique opportunity for professional growth and impactful leadership in the public sector. With a focus on innovation and continuous improvement, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture and flexible hybrid working arrangements, allowing for a balanced approach to work and life. Joining the Finance and Revenues Service means being part of a dedicated team that plays a crucial role in shaping the financial future of the community, while also enjoying opportunities for personal and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Accountant in Alloa
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of financial governance and controls. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and led teams in the past. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've influenced financial strategy or driven change in your previous roles. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can contribute to the Council's objectives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that Chief Accountant role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Accountant in Alloa
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Accountant role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in financial management and leadership, to show us you’re the perfect fit for this position.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've contributed to financial governance or improved budget strategies in previous roles to grab our attention.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with the Council's objectives. We want to see your personality come through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Accountant, you’ll need to demonstrate your technical accounting expertise. Brush up on the preparation of statutory financial statements and be ready to discuss your experience with managing complex budgets. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the numbers, but that you can also lead financial strategy effectively.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
You’ll be leading finance teams, so it’s crucial to highlight your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you’ve developed high-performing teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them to inspire and motivate your team.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
This role involves strategic decision-making, so make sure you understand Clackmannanshire Council's long-term objectives. Research their current financial strategies and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. This shows that you’re proactive and aligned with their vision.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure. Think of scenarios where you had to balance multiple projects or tight deadlines. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your decisions, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
