At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead statutory accounts production and manage audits while improving financial systems.
- Company: Large Local Authority focused on strategic finance leadership.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic environment with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in local government finance and lead a talented team.
- Qualifications: CCAB-qualified with extensive experience in local government finance and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
A large Local Authority is seeking a strategically minded, technically strong senior finance leader to oversee year‑end processes, statutory accounting, and continuous improvement across corporate finance services. The role leads the production of the annual Statement of Accounts, manages audits, ensures compliance with accounting standards, and provides expert technical advice across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead production of statutory accounts, VAT returns, government returns.
- Manage internal and external audit relationships and resolve audit queries.
- Oversee capital planning, corporate budget monitoring, and Collection Fund management.
- Support delivery of the Investment and Acquisition Strategy in partnership with Treasury.
- Improve financial systems, reporting, and internal controls.
- Provide high‑level technical accounting advice to senior leaders and Members.
- Lead and develop a team of finance professionals.
Candidate Profile
- CCAB‑qualified with substantial senior post‑qualification experience.
- Strong knowledge of local government finance, audit, and capital accounting.
- Proven leadership of high‑performing teams and complex financial operations.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills.
- Experience improving financial systems and applying financial legislation.
- Hybrid working is available.
- Ideally 5+ years Local Government experience.
Interim Chief Accountant employer: Hays
As a large Local Authority, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values strategic thinking and technical expertise in finance. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through continuous improvement initiatives and offers hybrid working options to ensure a healthy work-life balance. Join us to lead a talented team of finance professionals while making a meaningful impact on our community's financial health.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Chief Accountant
✨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 to expect in interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Brush up on your technical accounting knowledge and be ready to discuss your experience with statutory accounts and audits. We want you to showcase your expertise and how you've led teams through complex financial operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your leadership skills! When chatting with potential employers, share examples of how you've developed high-performing teams and improved financial systems. This will show them you're not just a numbers person but also a great leader.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to find and apply for roles like the Interim Chief Accountant. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any help!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Interim Chief Accountant. Highlight your experience with statutory accounts, audits, and financial systems. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to showcase your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've developed high-performing teams and managed complex financial operations. We love to see strong leaders!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially in finance!
Apply Through Our Website:Finally, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Interim Chief Accountant, you’ll need to be on top of your game with technical accounting. Brush up on local government finance, statutory accounts, and audit processes. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past roles where you’ve successfully managed audits or improved financial systems.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires leading a team of finance professionals, so be prepared to share your leadership experiences. Think about times when you’ve developed a high-performing team or resolved conflicts. Highlight your ability to influence and communicate effectively with senior leaders and stakeholders.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
The role involves strategic oversight, so demonstrate your understanding of how finance fits into the broader goals of the organisation. Be ready to discuss how you can support the Investment and Acquisition Strategy and improve corporate budget monitoring. Show that you’re not just about the numbers but also about driving organisational success.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your knowledge of accounting standards and legislation. Review key regulations and be prepared to explain how you’ve applied them in your previous roles. This is your chance to shine as the expert they need, so don’t hold back on showcasing your technical prowess!
