At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of accountants, ensuring financial governance and accurate reporting.
- Company: County Council seeking an experienced Interim Chief Accountant.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid work, and a long-term contract.
- Other info: Opportunity to manage a sizeable team and enhance your career in public finance.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on local governance and financial management.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chief Accountant in Local Authority and strong leadership skills.
Chief Accountant - Interim
Spencer Clarke Group are working closely with a County Council to appoint an experienced Interim Chief Accountant to lead the Council's corporate and technical accounting function.
This is a senior interim leadership assignment with responsibility for statutory reporting, financial governance and the management of a Chief Accountant's Team of up to 20 staff.
- What's on Offer
- Rate: £800 - £850 per day LTD
Initial - Contract: Until 28 February 2027
Full-time: 37 hours per week - Hybrid: 2 days per week at County Hall in Cichester
- Start: 31 August 2026 / subject to notice
The Role
The successful candidate will lead the Chief Accountant's Team, ensuring robust financial governance, accurate statutory reporting and effective technical accounting support across the Council.
Key responsibilities
- Leading and managing the Chief Accountant's Team of up to 20 staff.
- Leading the corporate closedown process and production of the annual Statement of Accounts.
- Managing the external audit relationship and ensuring reporting deadlines are achieved.
- Ensuring compliance with the CIPFA Financial Management Code and accounting standards.
- Overseeing statutory returns, treasury management, VAT, banking and cash management.
- Supporting the annual revenue budget process and strengthening financial controls.
About You
You will ideally have
- Recent Chief Accountant experience within a Local Authority - essential.
- Strong knowledge of Local Authority statutory accounts, closedown and external audit.
- Proven experience leading sizeable finance teams and advising senior stakeholders.
- Strong technical accounting, financial governance and treasury management expertise.
How to Apply
If you are interested, please submit your CV along with your availability and required day rate.
If successful, a consultant will be in touch to discuss further details.
Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
INDSCGBR
We also offer a market-leading referral scheme of up to £300.
If you know someone suitable, please ask them to email their CV , including your details. T&Cs apply.
Chief Accountant in Sussex employer: Jobiqo
Bromley Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a local government pension scheme and unique discounts, the Council prioritises employee well-being and career growth. Located in the vibrant Bromley Civic Centre, you will be part of a team that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the borough while enjoying the balance of urban and suburban life.
