At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial management and provide strategic advice to enhance service delivery.
- Company: Sandwell Council, committed to community-focused finance solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team driving change and innovation in public finance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government finance while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in finance and team management.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Sandwell Council’s Finance Division is seeking a proactive Finance Development Accountant on a full-time permanent basis, based from its Oldbury office. The organisation currently operates to a hybrid working model. The Finance Development Accountant within the Financial Reporting and Regulatory Team will work alongside the Strategic Financial Reporting Accountant to ensure the effective financial management of the functions under the remit of the post and provide financial advice and challenge to support delivery of services and achievement of Corporate Plan objectives.
The role will be responsible under the guidance of the Strategic Financial Reporting Accountant for the technical financial aspects of the area it supports, which will include:
- Development of training plans for finance and non-finance staff
- Maintaining the Council’s Financial Regulations
- Leading on relations with CIPFA
- Ensuring CPD activities are undertaken across Finance
- Leading on development of the council’s finance system
- Improving the finance offer for staff across the Council
The postholder will play a key role in supporting the Council’s change and transformation activities by providing strategic financial advice and guidance and offering innovative and creative solutions.
In This Role You Will:
- Have a detailed understanding of relevant legislation and underlying concepts and principles of Local Government Finance, particularly the technical areas of the statement of accounts (revenue and/or capital).
- Understand and interpret current and proposed accounting standards, ensuring compliance across the organisation including relevant training is developed for all finance staff and departments where appropriate.
- Provide strategic financial advice to senior management on the potential impact of any changes to accounting standards.
- Lead on the relationship with CIPFA as the public sector accounting body, ensuring continuing professional development (CPD) activities are undertaken across Finance and that CIPFA accreditation can be obtained.
- Lead on the development of training plans for staff within the service and be responsible for the co-ordination of finance trainees and apprentices.
- Lead on development of the Council’s overall finance system (general ledger, accounts payable and receivable), including the development of new reports.
- Devise and implement creative and innovative solutions to a wide range of challenges.
- Adopt a collaborative, supportive, and challenging approach, in providing advice, support and guidance on both established internal policy and external regulations or legislation to colleagues across the Council and to partner organisations.
Such other duties as may be appropriate to achieve the objectives of the post to assist the Service Area in the fulfilment of its objectives commensurate with the post holder's salary grade, abilities and aptitudes.
Attributes That You Would Bring To The Role:
- A fully Qualified member of the UK's recognised Chartered Accountancy body (i.e. CCAB, ICAEW, ACCA, ICAS, CIMA, or CIPFA).
- Proven relevant experience in a finance role with preferably some in a Local Government setting.
- Experience of supporting the closure of accounts.
- Direct experience of managing teams.
- Experience of managing tasks involving others.
- Experience of developing and delivering finance training.
- Experience of managing and developing individuals and teams to deliver the outcomes of the Directorate Business Plan and Corporate Plan.
- Experience of effective financial management and delivering financial advice at a strategic level across services.
- Experience of building effective partnerships, negotiating and consulting with internal and external stakeholders.
Finance Development Accountant employer: Sandwell Council
Sandwell Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee development and well-being, offering a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. As a Finance Development Accountant, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects that directly impact the community while benefiting from a supportive work culture that encourages continuous professional development and collaboration. With a focus on innovation and strategic financial management, you'll be part of a team dedicated to achieving corporate objectives and enhancing the finance function across the Council.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Development Accountant
✨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 Sandwell Council. 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 Finance Development Accountant
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 Sandwell Council.
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 Sandwell Council'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 Sandwell Council
✨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 Sandwell Council.
✨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 Sandwell Council 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 Sandwell Council 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.
