At a Glance
- Tasks: Support budget setting, financial monitoring, and produce final accounts for Property Services.
- Company: Join Solihull Council's Finance team in a dynamic public sector environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, additional leave options, and access to employee support services.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression from Band E to Band F.
- Why this job: Grow your finance career while making a real impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Part-qualified or fully qualified accountant with finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a part‑time Assistant Accountant / Accountant to join our Finance team supporting Corporate Property Services at Solihull Council. This is a key role where you’ll play an active part in delivering high‑quality financial management across the full financial cycle – from budget setting and monitoring through to preparing final accounts. You’ll provide professional financial advice to support decision making and help maximise value for money across Property Services. This post offers a development pathway from Band E to Band F, making it ideal for someone who is either part‑qualified or fully qualified and looking to grow their career in public sector finance.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting budget setting, financial monitoring and the production of final accounts
- Providing clear, accurate financial advice to non‑financial stakeholders
- Producing meaningful financial reports, forecasts and analysis to support decision making
- Working closely with colleagues across Property Services (e.g. surveyors and project managers) to improve financial understanding and control
- Ensuring financial systems and processes are accurate, compliant and continuously improved
- Supporting (and at Band F, leading) financial planning and service improvement activity
At Band F level, you will also:
- Lead on budget setting and financial accounts completion
- Drive improvements to financial processes and long‑term planning
- Work with senior managers to address financial challenges and deliver efficiencies
Required Experience and Skills
- Experience working in a finance environment across the financial cycle including forecasting and budgeting
- The ability to interpret financial data and communicate it clearly to non‑finance colleagues
- Analytical, organised and able to manage competing priorities under pressure
- Build strong working relationships and work collaboratively across teams
Qualifications
- Band E: Part qualified or working towards CCAB or CIMA
- Band F: Fully qualified accountant (CCAB or CIMA)
Benefits and Working Conditions
- Flexible working, including flexi leave and agile working arrangements
- The opportunity to buy up to 10 days additional leave per year
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24 hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Employee benefits including a staff discount card
This post is covered by the Fluency Duty, as outlined in the Code of Practice on the English language requirements for public sector workers. You will be based at Solihull Council House on a hybrid basis.
Assistant Accountant / Accountant employer: Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
Solihull Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With flexible working arrangements and access to valuable resources like the Employee Assistance Programme, staff can thrive both personally and professionally. This role not only provides a pathway for career advancement in public sector finance but also fosters collaboration across teams, making it a rewarding environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
Contact Details:
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Accountant / Accountant
✨Connect with Campus Reps
If you're looking for part-time work in banking, try to connect with your university's career services and campus representatives from banks. They often host recruitment events or provide exclusive job listings, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Get Involved in Financial Societies
Join finance or investment clubs at your university. These societies not only provide fantastic networking opportunities but also often collaborate with financial institutions for internships or part-time roles, making it easier for us to land those positions.
✨Use LinkedIn for Hidden Gems
Keep an eye on LinkedIn for part-time opportunities at banks, specifically targeting roles like customer service or administrative support. Companies like Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council often post openings there first, so be on the lookout and don’t forget to engage with their content!
✨Showcase Your Skills Directly
When applying for a part-time role, consider creating a simple portfolio that highlights your finance-related skills or projects. Whether it's a personal finance blog, a financial analysis you've done, or any relevant coursework, having this ready can impress hiring managers at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Accountant / Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In the banking and financial services world, it's all about numbers. Highlight any relevant coursework, grades, or certifications, like AAT or CFA, on your CV. If you can point to specific projects or tasks where you managed finances or analysed data, that's a big plus!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Us:When writing your cover letter, don’t just reiterate your CV. Tell us why you want to work at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and how this part-time role fits into your career goals. Map your skills and experiences directly to the job spec, and don’t forget to weave in any technical skills you have, like experience with financial software!
Marry Experience with Availability:Since this is part-time, it’s super important to state your availability clearly in your application. Highlight any previous work experience, even if it's not directly in finance, that shows your reliability and ability to juggle various commitments. Flexibility can be a real asset!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While you want to keep a professional tone, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of your personality into your application. Especially for a part-time role, we’re looking for someone who's not just skilled but also a good fit for the team at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. A little light-heartedness can go a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
✨Brush Up on Your Numbers
For a role in banking and financial services, you’ll likely encounter numerical tests that gauge your analytical skills. So, let’s whip out those maths skills! Practise mental arithmetic and get comfy with basic financial concepts; this'll really help you shine during the assessment stages.
✨Know Your Financial Products
Knowing your stuff about the various financial products and services is crucial. Be prepared to discuss topics like loans, mortgages, investment funds, and credit options. Having a finger on the pulse of current market trends and economic events can also give you an edge—the interviewers will appreciate your insight!
✨Flexibility and Commitment are Key
Since you're aiming for a part-time position, emphasise your flexibility and willingness to commit your time effectively. Highlight your ability to balance studies or other commitments while delivering results at work. This kind of attitude can set you apart from the competition.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio of Experience
Even though it’s a part-time role, companies want to see your motivation and past experience. Bring examples of relevant projects or roles, including internships or coursework that demonstrate your understanding and passion for banking and finance. The more tangible your examples, the more convincing you’ll be!
