At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and strategic advice for Education and Inclusion services.
- Company: London Borough of Redbridge, committed to supporting children with Special Educational Needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for service transformation and career growth.
- Why this job: Join a high-profile role that shapes sustainable services for young people with SEND.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with strong leadership and business partnering skills.
The predicted salary is between 59576 - 70089 £ per year.
The London Borough of Redbridge is seeking an experienced and strategic Group Accountant – High Needs Block to join our Education & Inclusion Directorate. This is a high-profile leadership role providing expert financial management, business partnering, and strategic advice to senior stakeholders across Education, Inclusion, and SEND services.
As the principal finance lead for the High Needs Block, you will play a vital role in supporting service transformation, delivering robust financial planning and forecasting, ensuring statutory compliance, and helping shape sustainable services for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified finance professional who combines technical expertise with strong leadership, business partnering, and influencing skills.
About the Role
Working within a matrix management environment, you will:
- Lead the provision of high-quality financial management and strategic advice across Education and Inclusion services.
- Act as the key financial advisor for High Needs Block funding and expenditure.
- Deliver monthly and quarterly budget monitoring, forecasting, and financial performance reporting.
- Support service transformation programmes through financial modelling, business case development, and options appraisals.
- Work closely with senior managers to identify savings opportunities, manage financial risks, and develop recovery plans where required.
- Contribute to the production of statutory accounts, financial returns, and external audit requirements.
- Manage and develop the SEND Finance Team, ensuring excellent service delivery and staff development.
- Support senior leadership and directors by providing financial advice for decision-making and governance processes.
- Represent Redbridge at regional and national forums, promoting the Council’s interests and contributing to sector-wide discussions.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Financial Leadership
- Provide expert financial advice to senior leaders and key stakeholders.
- Deliver complex financial modelling and scenario planning.
- Support commercial opportunities, investment decisions, and service redesign initiatives.
- Identify risks and develop practical mitigation strategies.
- Prepare reports and present financial information to senior management, Members, and external partners.
Financial Management & Business Partnering
- Lead budget monitoring, forecasting, and financial planning activities.
- Develop systems and processes that improve financial control and transparency.
- Support budget holders to deliver value for money and achieve financial sustainability.
- Produce clear and insightful management information to inform decision-making.
- Advise on funding opportunities and financial implications of policy changes.
Service Improvement & Transformation
- Provide financial support for business transformation and innovation programmes.
- Conduct options appraisals and sensitivity analysis for strategic projects.
- Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes, and reporting.
If you are interested in this role please send your updated CV in the first instance.
Group Accountant in London employer: Supply Staff Limited
At Supply Staff Limited, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment that empowers our educators to thrive. Located in the vibrant community of Hertfordshire, we offer competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a culture that values creativity and innovation in teaching. Join us to inspire the next generation of performers while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic educational setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Accountant in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Group Accountant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Supply Staff Limited
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
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