At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage budgets and provide financial advice to support education initiatives.
- Company: Local authority in Hampshire with a focus on community development.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, flexible working conditions, and a referral bonus.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's education while advancing your accounting career.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified with experience in budget preparation and financial monitoring.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 21 - 28 £ per hour.
Location: Hampshire
Contract: Temporary (6-months initial)
Salary: £27.37 per hour umbrella / £24.60 per hour PAYE Inclusive / £21.95 per hour PAYE Exclusive
Start Date: ASAP
Service Care Solutions are recruiting on behalf of a local authority in Hampshire for a Senior Accountant to join the team on a temporary basis. The postholder will be required to work with the Group Accountant in the Children, Families and Education Finance Team.
Key Responsibilities
- Preparation, monitoring and closing of revenue and capital budgets.
- Provision of financial advice to Directorate and to schools.
- Interpreting and implementing government guidance and initiatives and complying with grant conditions.
- Completing statutory returns and supporting high profile projects.
- Providing reliable financial service to the Directorate and Maintained Schools, supporting operational delivery and strategic decision making.
Candidate Criteria
- CCAB qualified with ideally 2 years’ experience post-qualification, and able to demonstrate professional updating. Experience in schools, DSG or capital would be desirable.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel, ability to use financial information systems such as Oracle, as well as larger databases.
- At least 1 year’s experience in preparing budgets and preparing monthly budget monitoring plans.
- Effective communicator and ability to form good relationships with customers, staff and senior officers.
- Experience in advising senior officers and attending management teams and working groups on finance related issues.
- Experience in the preparation of monthly accounts, financial monitoring and final annual accounts.
- Experience in appraising and evaluating the financial implications of projects and proposals using accounting techniques.
- Knowledge of Local Government Finance, customer care, equalities and Health and Safety.
If you are interested in the role, or know of anyone who could be, please contact Rachel at Service Care Solutions.
Service Care Solutions also offers a £250 referral bonus! So, if you know of anyone who would be perfect for this position and they are placed into work, you will receive £250 for the referral once their probationary period has been completed.
Senior Accountant employer: Service Care Solutions
Contact Detail:
Service Care Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with local authorities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of Local Government Finance. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description, especially around budget preparation and financial advice.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your previous work, like budget monitoring plans or financial reports, to demonstrate your expertise. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Accountant role. Highlight your CCAB qualification and relevant experience, especially in schools or capital projects. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in Microsoft Excel and any financial information systems you've used, like Oracle. We’re keen on candidates who can hit the ground running with these tools!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Service Care Solutions
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Accountant, you'll need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss your experience with budgets, monitoring plans, and statutory returns. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the numbers but can also interpret and advise on them effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Local Government Finance
Since this role involves working with a local authority, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of Local Government Finance. Research recent government initiatives and guidance that may impact the role. Being able to discuss these in your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and commitment to the position.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when advising senior officers and collaborating with schools. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex financial information in the past. This will highlight your ability to build relationships and support strategic decision-making.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and financial acumen. Think about past experiences where you had to appraise financial implications or manage budgets under pressure. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.