At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the production of financial statements and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Company: Join a London Borough Council committed to transparency and community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working and competitive pay of up to £900 per day.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government finance while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree level qualification and membership in a professional accounting body required.
- Other info: This is a 6-month rolling contract with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Job Description
We are partnering with a London Borough Council in their search for a Deputy Chief Accountant. This is a 6 month rolling contract based in London offering hybrid working, and paying up to £900 per day via umbrella for the right candidate.
As the Deputy Chief Accountant, you will be responsible for:
- To act as the lead coordinator for the annual production of the Statement of Accounts.
- Ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial records, provides strategic financial guidance.
- Managing day to day activity within the Chief Accountant's team, including design and implementation of processes and procedures for other staff to follow.
- Maintaining the integrity of the underpinning chart of accounts, balances and transactions to facilitate all aspects of statutory and management reporting.
- Providing high quality professional and technical advice to members, senior officers, service finance teams and the wider organisation on a broad range of financial accounting and reporting issues, ensuring compliance with CIPFA Codes of Practice (including
- Accounting and Service Expenditure Reporting) and Council financial regulations.
- Technical lead on liaising with external auditors and contribute to management comments on external audit recommendations and progress these to ensure implementation within agreed timeframes.
- ·Deputising for the Chief Accountant as may be reasonably required from time to time in relation to day-to-day financial reporting activities.
This role will be right for you if you have:
- Degree level or equivalent qualification plus relevant experience.
- Membership of appropriate professional body by examination e.g. CIPFA, or other CCAB body; plus evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).
- Experience of working in a financial accounting role, with evidence of having advised senior management in financial accounting.
- Strong experience of preparing financial statement and consolidated group accounts in a local government environment.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- High ethical standards and integrity.
- Experience of managing staff members, preferably extending to management of a large team
- Ability to exercise initiative and good judgement in delivering service and Council aims and objectives.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities.
- Knowledge of public finance regulations and practices
- Good knowledge of financial accounting standards and CIPFA codes and drive for constant updates.
- Knowledge of valuation of assets
- Proficiency in financial accounting systems/software and understanding
- integration of other systems integration.
Randstad Financial & Professional encourage applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds. Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Randstad Financial & Professional acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003
Deputy Chief Accountant employer: Randstad Perm Professionals
Contact Detail:
Randstad Perm Professionals Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Chief Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in local government finance. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet people already working in similar roles. This can help you gain insights into the role and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest CIPFA Codes of Practice and public finance regulations. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and financial reporting during interviews. Have specific examples ready that showcase your leadership skills and how you've successfully implemented processes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the London Borough Council's recent financial reports and initiatives. Understanding their current challenges and priorities will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how you can add value to their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Chief Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial accounting, particularly in local government. Emphasise your qualifications, such as membership in CIPFA or other CCAB bodies, and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the specific responsibilities of the Deputy Chief Accountant role. Mention your experience with financial statements, compliance with CIPFA codes, and your ability to manage teams effectively.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills related to financial accounting standards, public finance regulations, and proficiency in financial accounting systems. Use examples from your past work to demonstrate these skills.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. Attention to detail is crucial in this role, so ensure your application reflects that quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Perm Professionals
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a Deputy Chief Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate a strong understanding of financial accounting standards and CIPFA codes. Be prepared to discuss your experience with preparing financial statements and how you've ensured compliance in previous roles.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role involves managing a team, so it's crucial to showcase your leadership skills. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, implemented processes, and supported staff development in your past positions.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and judgement. Prepare scenarios where you had to exercise initiative or make critical decisions, particularly in financial reporting or compliance situations.
✨Demonstrate Ethical Standards
Given the importance of integrity in this role, be ready to discuss how you uphold ethical standards in your work. Provide examples of how you've navigated challenging situations while maintaining compliance and transparency.