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- Tasks: Lead the preparation of Pension Fund Financial Statements and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
- Company: Local Authority in the North West with a focus on public sector finance.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid working, and potential contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on local authority finances while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualification and experience in local authority accounts preferred.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with investment managers and auditors in a dynamic environment.
Spencer Clarke Group are working closely with a Local Authority in the North West to appoint an Interim Pension Fund Statement of Accounts Lead to deliver the 2025/26 Pension Fund Financial Statements in line with CIPFA accounting standards. This is a highly specialist interim assignment within the Council's LGPS function, focused on the production, finalisation and audit clearance of the Pension Fund Statement of Accounts.
This role will be based at County Hall, Preston, with a minimum of three days per week onsite.
The Role
The successful candidate will lead on the preparation and delivery of the 2025/26 LGPS Statement of Accounts, ensuring full compliance with the CIPFA Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting and relevant pensions accounting standards (including IAS 26).
Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the production of the LGPS Pension Fund Statement of Accounts for 2025/26
- Preparing the Fund Account, Net Assets Statement and all supporting notes
- Liaising with investment managers, custodians and actuaries to obtain and validate year-end data
- Ensuring full compliance with the CIPFA Code and pensions accounting standards
- Managing the year-end closedown process for the Pension Fund
- Supporting the external audit process through to final sign-off
- Responding to audit queries and making any required technical adjustments
What's on Offer
- Contract: Initial 3 - 6 months (likely extension)
- Working pattern: Hybrid
- Hours: Full-time 37 per week
- Day Rate: 500 - 600 per day
About You
You will ideally have:
- A CCAB qualification (CIPFA / ACCA / CIMA / ACA)
- Proven experience leading on the production of local authority Statement of Accounts
- Direct experience of Pension Fund (LGPS) accounts (highly desirable)
- Strong knowledge of the CIPFA Code of Practice
- Experience working through external audit on public sector accounts
- The ability to work confidently with actuaries, investment managers and auditors
How to Apply
If you are interested, please submit your CV clearly stating your required day rate. Applications without a stated pay rate will not be considered. If shortlisted, a consultant will be in touch to discuss the assignment in further detail.
Finance Lead - employer: Spencer Clarke Group
Contact Detail:
Spencer Clarke Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Lead -
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with LGPS. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on CIPFA standards and pension fund specifics. We recommend practising common interview questions related to financial statements and audit processes. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that match your skills. Use our website to find positions that align with your experience in local authority accounts and pensions. Tailor your approach for better chances!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind for the hiring team. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the role, which is always a bonus in the finance world.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Lead -
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Lead role. Highlight your experience with LGPS accounts and your CCAB qualification. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When writing your application, focus on your proven experience in producing local authority Statement of Accounts. Mention any direct experience with pension funds and compliance with CIPFA standards – this will catch our eye!
Be Clear About Your Day Rate: Don’t forget to clearly state your required day rate in your application. We won’t be able to consider your application without it, so make sure it’s front and centre!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spencer Clarke Group
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on the key financial metrics and standards relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the CIPFA Code of Practice and IAS 26, as these will likely come up during your interview. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the position.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your experience with Pension Fund accounts and local authority Statement of Accounts. Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've led similar projects or dealt with audit processes. This will demonstrate your expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with various stakeholders like actuaries and investment managers, it's crucial to highlight your communication abilities. Think of instances where you've successfully navigated complex discussions or resolved conflicts, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the council's current challenges with the Pension Fund or how they measure success in this role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.
