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- Tasks: Lead the finance team through a system transition and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
- Company: Join a non-ministerial government department providing actuarial advice globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £70k plus a great pension and flexible work options.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative strategy while making impactful decisions in public finance.
- Qualifications: Strong financial accounting skills and experience in managing teams are essential.
- Other info: This is a 12-month maternity cover role based in London or Edinburgh.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Head of Finance (FTC 12 months maternity cover) | £70k + great pension, London or Edinburgh 3 days a week onsite
Reporting to Director of Finance and Operations. Up to 2 direct reports (team of 8).
Waverly, Edinburgh, EH8 8FT, United Kingdom or South Colonnade Canary Wharf London E14 4PU.
Our client is a non-ministerial government department that provides actuarial advice to other government departments and organisations in the public sector in the UK and around the world. Their mission is to support effective decision-making and robust reporting within government as the first-choice provider of actuarial and specialist analysis, advice and assurance.
The finance team is small, but it has a broad and varied remit. This is an exciting time to join the organisation – we are setting out our strategy over the next five years. We are also planning our transition to a new finance system, delivering efficiencies across the department, enhancing decision making and transforming the way we work.
This is a great opportunity to demonstrate existing financial accounting and reporting skills whilst gaining insight into the working of a unique Arms Length Body at the heart of central government.
The successful candidate will report to and support the Director of Finance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead the Finance team through transition to a new finance system.
- Assure key business and system changes, working closely with colleagues across the department to ensure future changes align to relevant accounting standards, best practice and Government Functional Standards, protecting the organisation’s ability to meet statutory accounting and control obligations whilst embedding best practice in financial reporting and insight.
- Lead on financial accounting, including preparation of the annual report and accounts, audit exercises, operational financial activity eg cash flow management and act as the main contact to Government Auditory bodies.
- Lead on external reporting to HM Treasury and Cabinet Office, eg Main and Supplementary Estimates, spending controls and transparency returns.
- Provision of expert technical financial advice – which can include sensitive and complex accounting and budgeting issues.
- Ensure robust stewardship of, and accounting for, public money, underpinned by effective planning and internal controls.
- Champion sound financial management across the Department, reviewing financial operations and performance and providing appropriate challenge and support.
- Provide high quality information and advice to inform the Executive committee and Board, supporting prioritisation decisions at departmental level.
- Provide inspirational leadership and act as a deputy for the Director of Finance and Operations.
- Develop and support a high performing team.
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Head Of Finance London Or Edinburgh 70K + Great Pension employer: SmartSourcing Ltd
Contact Detail:
SmartSourcing Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Finance London Or Edinburgh 70K + Great Pension
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific financial regulations and standards that apply to government departments in the UK. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals who have experience in public sector finance or have worked in similar roles. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with financial systems transitions, as this is a key responsibility of the role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led or contributed to similar projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've developed high-performing teams in the past. Highlighting your ability to inspire and manage a team will be crucial for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Finance London Or Edinburgh 70K + Great Pension
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities and requirements. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with leading a finance team and managing transitions to new systems.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your previous experience in financial accounting, reporting, and leadership. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects, particularly in a government or public sector context.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your technical financial skills and knowledge of accounting standards. Mention any experience you have with external reporting to government bodies, as well as your ability to provide expert financial advice on complex issues.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your enthusiasm for the role and the organization. Discuss your vision for the finance team and how you can contribute to the department's strategic goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at SmartSourcing Ltd
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Familiarize yourself with the transition to a new finance system and how it aligns with best practices in financial reporting.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your leadership experience, especially in managing teams through transitions. Highlight how you've supported your team in achieving high performance and how you can inspire others.
✨Showcase Financial Expertise
Be ready to discuss your experience with financial accounting, external reporting, and providing technical financial advice. Prepare to answer questions about your approach to managing public funds and ensuring compliance with government standards.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex financial situations. Think about past challenges you've faced and how you navigated them, particularly in relation to audit exercises and financial management.
