Deputy Head of Pensions Finance in London

Deputy Head of Pensions Finance in London

London Full-Time 48873 - 62451 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support financial reporting and manage assets for a £3bn pension fund.
  • Company: Join Wandsworth Council's dynamic Pensions Finance team.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, hybrid working, and competitive salary.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in local government finance and governance.
  • Qualifications: Experience in accounting and local government finance is essential.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and career growth.

The predicted salary is between 48873 - 62451 £ per year.

Salary Range: £48,873 - £62,451 depending on experience

Contract: Permanent – Full-time

Location: Wandsworth

Work Arrangement: Hybrid Working Available

This role is within the Pensions Finance team, which 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 involves preparing reports and financial statements for the Pension Fund, Insurance, and Southwest Middlesex Crematorium Board, as well as managing financial assets and cash balances.

Responsibilities

  • Support the Head of Pensions Finance in producing reports and financial statements for the Pension Fund, Insurance, and Southwest Middlesex Crematorium Board.
  • Manage financial assets and cash balances.
  • Deputise for the Head of Pensions Finance on operational matters.
  • Lead officer for the Local Pension Board.
  • Act as Treasurer to the Southwest Middlesex Crematorium.
  • Provide accounting advice and participate in decision making.
  • Strengthen pension fund governance in the General Code and Fit for the Future, including strong written and verbal communication for report writing and presentation to the Board.
  • Develop in-depth knowledge of accounting areas and meet deadlines.
  • Build knowledge in: (i) Accounting and governance for LGPS/local government; (ii) Smaller body accounting and financial planning for Southwest Middlesex Crematorium; (iii) Accounting and budgeting for the council’s insurance costs, including setting aside balances for self-insurance.
  • Exhibit excellent communications skills to write reports and briefing notes and present them at Board and other meetings.

Essential Qualifications, Skills And Experience

  • Experience of producing year-end accounts and interpreting/applying accounting rules.
  • Ability to effectively check your own work and that of colleagues.
  • 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 providing a finance support service including financial planning and reporting, ensuring non-finance managers comply with financial regulations, engaging effectively with budgets, 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

Note: We may close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.

Useful Information

Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership are committed to inclusive recruitment practices and promoting equality and diversity. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults; some posts may be exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and require a satisfactory DBS check.

Benefits include 40 days annual leave (including...

Deputy Head of Pensions Finance in London employer: Richmond and Wandsworth Councils

Wandsworth Council offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Deputy Head of Pensions Finance role, with a strong emphasis on employee growth and development. Our hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our commitment to inclusivity and diversity ensures that all employees feel valued and empowered. With competitive benefits such as 40 days of annual leave and opportunities to engage in meaningful financial governance, Wandsworth Council is an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career in public service.
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Contact Detail:

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Pensions Finance in London

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and pensions sector. Attend industry 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. We recommend practising common interview questions related to financial reporting and governance. Confidence is key, so get comfortable talking about your experience!

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your communication skills! Whether it’s through a presentation or a casual chat, make sure you can clearly explain complex financial concepts. This will help you stand out as someone who can effectively engage with non-finance managers.

✨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 about their job search. So, go ahead and submit that application!

We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Pensions Finance in London

Financial Reporting
Accounting Knowledge
Local Government Accounting Codes
Financial Planning
Budget Management
Communication Skills
Report Writing
Presentation Skills
Governance Knowledge
Attention to Detail
Problem-Solving Skills
Team Leadership
Regulatory Compliance
Cash Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in pensions finance. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!

Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves writing reports and presenting to the Board, it’s crucial to demonstrate your written and verbal communication prowess. Use clear, concise language and provide examples of your past experiences where you’ve excelled in these areas.

Highlight Your Technical Knowledge: We’re looking for someone with a solid understanding of local government accounting codes and regulations. Make sure to mention any specific knowledge or experience you have in this area to stand out from the crowd!

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils

✨Know Your Numbers

Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around year-end accounts and local government accounting codes. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but can also dive deep into the specifics.

✨Prepare for Governance Questions

Since this role involves strengthening pension fund governance, be ready to discuss your understanding of governance frameworks and how they apply to local authorities. Think about examples from your past experience where you’ve contributed to governance improvements.

✨Showcase Your Communication Skills

This position requires excellent written and verbal communication skills. Prepare to present a mock report or briefing note during the interview. This will demonstrate your ability to convey complex financial information clearly and effectively.

✨Engage with Real Scenarios

Think of real-life scenarios where you've had to manage financial assets or cash balances. Be prepared to discuss how you approached these situations, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes. This will help the interviewers see your practical experience in action.

Deputy Head of Pensions Finance in London
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
Location: London
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