Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head of Pensions Finance in managing financial assets and producing reports.
- Company: Join Richmond & Wandsworth Councils, a progressive local government organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension plan.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and financial management.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant or 5 years' experience in local government accounting required.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to equality and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 48873 - 62451 ÂŁ per year.
About Us: Richmond & Wandsworth Councils
Salary Range: ÂŁ48,873 - ÂŁ62,451 (dependent on experience)
Employment Type: Permanent - Full-time
Location: Wandsworth
Working Arrangement: Hybrid working available
Are you an experienced qualified accountant (preferably CIPFA) or have 5 years’ experience of working in technical accounting in local governments? If the answer is “yes” then we have the perfect opportunity for you at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils. The Pensions Finance team provides financial and investment support to Wandsworth Council’s £3bn pension fund, the Southwest Middlesex Crematorium Board and the Better Service Partnership’s Insurance function.
The role supports the Head of Pensions Finance in producing the reports and financial statements of the Pension Fund, Insurance and Southwest Middlesex Crematorium Board, and manages financial assets and cash balances. This includes deputising for the Head of Pensions Finance on operational matters, staff management, serving as lead officer for the Local Pension Board, acting as Treasurer to the SWM Crematorium, and providing accounting advice and decision making. Strengthening pension fund governance in the General Code and Fit for the Future adds a non-finance element to the role and requires strong written and verbal communication skills for report writing and presentation to the Board. You will need a strong understanding and experience of accounting (preferably using the CIPFA Code of Practice) and the ability to gain in-depth knowledge of the three areas while meeting deadlines.
Responsibilities
- As Deputy Head of Pensions Finance you would need to be prepared to step in as Deputy and Committee or Board member and you would need to build knowledge of:
- Accounting (ideally for an LGPS fund or local government) and governance
- Smaller Body accounting and financial planning for Southwest Middlesex Crematorium
- Accounting and budgeting for the costs of the council's insurance, including setting aside appropriate balances to cover self-insurance costs
You will have excellent communications skills to write reports and brief notes with the opportunity to present them at Board and other meetings. Please contact the Head of Pensions Finance if you would like to discuss this role.
Essential Qualifications, Skills And Experience
- Must be able to demonstrate experience of producing year end accounts and interpreting and applying accounting rules.
- Ability to effectively check your own work and that of colleagues is essential.
- Must have in-depth knowledge and understanding of local government accounting codes, standards and regulations that apply to local authorities, LGPS pension funds and joint committees.
- Experience of providing a finance support service including financial planning and reporting, ensuring non-finance managers comply with financial regulations and engage effectively with budget setting and monitoring in year.
- Knowledge and understanding of the Local Government finance environment, including the Local Government Pension Scheme.
Indicative Recruitment Timeline
- Closing Date: Sunday 08 February 2026
- Shortlisting Date: Week commencing 09 February 2026
- Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
We may close this vacancy early once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Useful Information
Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership are committed to inclusive recruitment practices and to promoting equality and diversity. We are a Disability Confident employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, please let us know. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts may be exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and appointment may be conditional upon a satisfactory DBS check.
We offer a wide range of benefits designed to attract, develop, and reward our employees, such as 40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), flexible working, and a generous pension plan.
Deputy Head of Pensions Finance employer: London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Pensions Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and local government sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local government accounting codes and regulations. Practice answering common interview questions related to pensions finance, and think of examples from your experience that showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! Whether it’s through a presentation or a written report, make sure you can clearly articulate complex financial concepts. This will be crucial when you’re presenting to boards or committees.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Pensions Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Deputy Head of Pensions Finance. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in accounting and governance can benefit our Pensions Finance team. We want to see real examples of your work that relate to local government finance.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us see your strong communication skills right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people quickly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Deputy Head of Pensions Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in accounting. Brush up on the CIPFA Code of Practice and be ready to discuss how you've applied these principles in your previous roles. Prepare examples of year-end accounts you've produced and be ready to explain the accounting rules behind them.
✨Master the Governance Game
Understanding governance is key for this role. Familiarise yourself with the Local Pension Board's responsibilities and the General Code. Be prepared to discuss how you would strengthen pension fund governance and provide examples of how you've navigated similar challenges in the past.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Strong communication skills are essential for writing reports and presenting to the Board. Practice summarising complex financial information into clear, concise points. Consider preparing a mock presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your ability to convey important information effectively.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As you'll be deputising for the Head of Pensions Finance, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Think of instances where you've managed teams or projects, and be ready to discuss how you motivate others and ensure compliance with financial regulations. This will show that you're not just a numbers person but also a capable leader.
