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 professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team driving change and innovation in public finance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local government finance while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Fully 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 Metropolitan Borough 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 benefit from a collaborative work culture, opportunities for professional growth through training and CPD activities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on local governance and community services. Join us in our Oldbury office to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and excellence in public finance.
Contact Details:
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Development Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the finance sector, especially those connected to local government. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. 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 finance and current accounting standards. Be ready to discuss how you can bring innovative solutions to the table. Show them you’re not just a number cruncher but a strategic thinker!
✨Tip Number 3
When you apply, make sure to highlight your experience with training and developing others. The role involves leading on training plans, so showcasing your ability to mentor and guide will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us can give you an edge, as we’re always looking for proactive candidates who are ready to make a difference in local government finance.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Development Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Development Accountant role. Highlight your relevant experience in local government finance and any specific achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills match what we're looking for. Be sure to mention your experience with financial management and training development, as these are key aspects of the position.
Showcase Your Qualifications:As a fully qualified member of a recognised Chartered Accountancy body, make sure to prominently display your qualifications. We’re keen on seeing how your credentials can contribute to our finance team and support our objectives.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you who want to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Local Government Finance and the relevant legislation. Brush up on accounting standards and be ready to discuss how they impact financial management. This will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you can provide strategic advice.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in managing teams, developing training plans, and delivering financial advice. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.
✨Be Collaborative
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with others. Think of examples where you've successfully built partnerships or negotiated with stakeholders. This role requires a supportive and hands-on approach, so demonstrating your teamwork skills will be key.
✨Bring Creative Solutions
The job involves devising innovative solutions to challenges. Be prepared to discuss any creative strategies you've implemented in previous roles. This could include improvements to finance systems or training initiatives that made a real difference.
