Chief Accountant in Southampton

Seven Resourcing are recruiting an experienced Chief Accountant to join a large public sector organisation on a fixed-term basis. This is a senior leadership role with a strong technical focus, playing a key part in strengthening financial governance, improving final accounts processes, and rebuilding external audit assurance.

This role is ideal for a qualified accountant with extensive local government or public sector experience who thrives in complex environments and enjoys leading change.

The Role

The Chief Accountant will lead the organisation’s technical accounting function and take ownership of the annual Statement of Accounts. A major focus of the post will be reviewing, redesigning, and implementing a streamlined final accounts process, including the introduction of a consolidated accounts model.

You will work closely with senior finance leadership, external auditors, and internal stakeholders to address historic audit issues, ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, and strengthen confidence in financial reporting. The postholder will also manage the financial ledger, oversee VAT and taxation compliance, and provide expert advice on complex accounting matters. Deputising for the Head of Corporate Finance will be required when necessary.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the production of the annual Statement of Accounts in line with accounting standards, statutory guidance, and publication deadlines.
• Act as the primary technical lead for external audit, supporting the rebuilding of audit assurance.
• Interpret and implement accounting standards, CIPFA guidance, and relevant financial regulations.
• Provide expert advice on complex financial instruments and accounting treatments.
• Ensure full compliance with VAT, taxation, and treasury management requirements.

Operational Management

• Manage the council’s financial ledger, including revenue, capital, balance sheet, and cashflow accounting.
• Oversee banking, cash management, and reconciliation processes.
• Lead, manage, and motivate a team of finance professionals, including performance management and development.
• Drive continuous improvement through smarter processes, automation, and use of technology.

Strategic & Corporate Support

• Support the Head of Corporate Finance, Director of Finance, and statutory S151 Officer in maintaining strong financial management and governance.
• Work collaboratively with strategic finance and revenue teams to ensure accurate recording of grants and income.
• Contribute to financial strategies, policies, and long-term planning.
• Respond to central government consultations as required.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide clear, high-quality financial reporting to senior leadership, elected members, and governance boards.
• Deliver training and technical briefings on local government finance to non-financial audiences.
• Build effective working relationships with auditors, professional bodies, and external partners.

Person Specification

• Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, CIMA, ACCA, or ACA) with up-to-date CPD.
• Extensive knowledge of accounting standards, CIPFA guidance, and the statutory framework of local government finance.
• Proven experience producing and maintaining Statements of Accounts.
• Strong experience managing capital programmes and financial ledgers.
• Experience of VAT, taxation, and treasury management within a public sector setting.
• Demonstrable experience of leading and managing finance teams.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial matters to non-financial stakeholders.
• High level of IT literacy, including financial systems and Microsoft Office.
• At least five years’ experience working within local government or a comparable organisation.
• Experience of recruitment, performance management, and team development.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for improvement and long-term value.

Why Work with Seven Resourcing?

At Seven Resourcing, we go beyond recruitment. With nearly a decade of industry experience, over 3,000 five-star reviews, and award-winning support, we’re dedicated to helping you reach your full potential. We provide access to meaningful roles, ongoing development opportunities, and continuous support every step of the way.