At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in financial management and reporting for Sandwell Council.
- Company: Join Sandwell Council, a values-led organisation making a real impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and strong focus on employee development.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a supportive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Play a key role in delivering services that change lives across the borough.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accounting Technician or equivalent with 2 years' experience in financial management.
Grade/Salary: Band G, SCP 32-37 (£42,839 - £48,226 per annum)
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Working Pattern: Monday – Friday, 37 hours
Location: Sandwell Council House, Oldbury (Hybrid)
Closing Date: 06/09/2026
Sandwell Council’s Finance & Transformation Division is seeking a detailed and qualified Assistant Corporate Accountant to join its Accounting team on a full-time, permanent basis based from its Oldbury office. The organisation is operating to a hybrid working model.
Reporting to a Financial Accountant, the role will be key in ensuring effective financial management of the Council's statutory and corporate reporting responsibilities. This includes:
- Assisting on year-end accounts closure and the preparation and production of the Statement of Accounts and statutory returns
- Supporting external audit processes
- Ensuring compliance with accounting standards and local government finance regulations
- Providing financial advice and guidance to budget holders
- Developing financial models and reporting tools
- Supervising Finance Assistants or Accountancy Trainees where required
The successful candidate will need relevant financial reporting experience, strong analytical skills, excellent attention to detail and communication skills, the ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information and the ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
About the role:
- Undertake financial year end activities in accordance with agreed processes and timescales
- Provide financial advice and guidance to finance colleagues, budget holders on corporate accounting matters
- Preparation of robust financial modelling, including financial projections, to agreed timescales and standards
- Completion of reconciliations as required
- Undertaking of treasury management activities
- Completion of grant claims and statistical returns
- Completion of statutory returns
- Support the team in maintenance of the corporate fixed asset register
- 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
About you:
- Qualified Accounting Technician or equivalent or part qualified member of a chartered accounting body
- A minimum of 2 years’ experience gained in a financial management environment preferably at least some in a public sector environment
- Knowledge of and ability to use financial systems
- Ability to travel to all parts of the borough
- Flexibility and willingness to work with changing and conflicting demands
- Strong organisational and interpersonal skills
- Ability to understand and disseminate complex financial and non-financial data and to prepare reasoned reports from this information
- Ability to make decisions based upon the interpretation of financial and non-financial data
Why Sandwell Council?
At Sandwell Council, our work has a real impact. We are proud to be a values-led organisation that supports its employees with excellent benefits, a competitive remuneration package, and a strong focus on development. By joining us, you’ll play a key role in delivering services that make a real and lasting difference to thousands of people across the borough.
How to apply:
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should a high number of applications be received. Applicants are therefore strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
If you are an internal candidate and currently at risk, please let the recruiting manager know.
We place equality, diversity and inclusion at the core of who we are and how we lead, where every voice matters. At Sandwell, we recognise and value the richness that comes from diverse lived experiences, perspectives, backgrounds and identities. This diversity makes us a stronger and more effective council.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels they belong, are treated fairly, and have the opportunity to thrive. Creating an environment where colleagues feel respected, supported and able to contribute fully is central to our culture and the way we work. We are committed to ensuring that all applicants and employees have equitable access to opportunities. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process and within the workplace so that everyone has the support they need to perform at their best and succeed in their role.
Assistant Corporate Accountant in Oldbury employer: Sandwell Council
Sandwell Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and compassionate work environment within its award-winning Bereavement Services team. Employees benefit from a strong focus on customer service, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community during significant life events. The council's commitment to employee well-being and development makes it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Corporate Accountant in Oldbury
✨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.
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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 Assistant Corporate Accountant in Oldbury
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.
