At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the preparation of statutory financial statements and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
- Company: Join a reputable organisation focused on public sector finance and statutory reporting.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public finance while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in statutory reporting and strong leadership abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced and technically proficient Financial Accountant with a passion for public sector finance and statutory reporting? Join our client and play a critical role in the preparation, integrity, and compliance of their annual financial statements and group accounts on a contract basis.
Key Role Summary:
You will be instrumental in the accurate and timely preparation of the organisation's annual statutory financial statements and group accounts, ensuring strict adherence to the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting. This contract role requires strong technical knowledge, leadership skills, and the ability to manage complex reporting requirements, including Whole of Government Accounts (WGA) and key HMRC/Government statutory returns.
Key Responsibilities & What You Will Deliver:
- Statutory & Financial Reporting Excellence (Operational)
- Lead the preparation of the annual statutory financial statements for the Organisation and its Group, ensuring full compliance with the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting and relevant legislation.
- Manage and submit the annual Whole of Government Accounts (WGA) and ensure all HMRC and Government statutory returns are submitted accurately and by stipulated deadlines.
- Prepare and review monthly Balance Sheet reporting, including key reconciliations and control accounts.
- Manage the grants process to ensure proper accounting practices are followed.
- Technical Expertise & Compliance (Accountability & Strategic)
- Provide technical advice on accounting to the Organisation and its subsidiaries, acting as a subject matter expert.
- Support the implementation of new accounting standards in line with the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting.
- Work with the Group Financial Accounting & Reporting Manager to implement and ensure compliance with financial policies and controls.
- Collaborate closely with the capital accounting team to ensure compliance with capital accounting rules.
- Audit Management & People Development (People)
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with external auditors to ensure a smooth and efficient annual audit process.
- Manage and participate in internal and external audit requests.
- Manage and support the development of the finance team, acting as a motivator and excellent role model through regular 1-2-1s and feedback.
- Provide financial accounting advice and, where necessary, deliver financial accounting training to both finance and non-finance teams.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- We are looking for a proactive, flexible professional who possesses high integrity and a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Expertise in UK Local Authority Accounting: Deep practical knowledge of the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting is essential.
- Statutory Reporting Experience: Proven experience in preparing and delivering complex statutory financial statements and group accounts.
- Leadership Skills: Experience in managing, developing, and motivating team members.
- Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication skills for liaising effectively with internal stakeholders, external auditors, and government bodies.
Senior Financial Accountant in Birmingham employer: Randstad Finance
Join a forward-thinking organisation that values integrity, collaboration, and professional growth. As a Senior Financial Accountant, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that prioritises continuous improvement and offers opportunities for leadership development. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on public sector finance but also provides a chance to engage with a diverse team committed to excellence in statutory reporting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Financial Accountant in Birmingham
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Randstad Finance. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Financial Accountant in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Randstad Finance.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Randstad Finance's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Finance
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Randstad Finance.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Randstad Finance will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Randstad Finance employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.