Head of Financial Accounting (Deputy S73 Officer)

Job Overview

You will lead and manage the financial accounting function of the local authority, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, delivering high-quality financial reporting, and maintaining robust financial controls. This role supports sound financial governance, transparency, and accountability in the use of public funds. You will act as the nominated Deputy S73 Officer, representing the S73 Officer at regional and national forums as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the local authority’s financial accounting function, ensuring statutory compliance and high-quality reporting.
• Maintain robust financial controls and manage the audit process.
• Provide financial information and analysis to support strategic decision‑making.
• Represent the S73 Officer at relevant regional and national forums.
• Communicate complex financial information to non‑financial stakeholders.
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of local authority statutory accounts.

Qualifications and Experience

• Fully qualified accountant (e.g., ACCA, CIPFA, ICAEW or equivalent).
• Significant senior‑level experience in financial accounting within local government or the public sector.
• Proven experience producing local authority statutory accounts and managing the audit process.
• Strong understanding of public sector financial frameworks and regulations, including local authority accounting requirements and the CIPFA Codes of Practice.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills, capable of presenting complex financial information to non‑financial stakeholders.
• High integrity and commitment to public service values.
• Resilience, proactivity, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

Competency Framework

• Leadership & Direction
• Communication & Influence
• Experience & Technical
• Responsibility & Accountability

Benefits

• Hybrid/Flexible working
• 27 days annual leave (increasing to 32 days after 5 years of service)
• Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Private counselling sessions
• Physio therapy sessions
• Specsavers eye‑care vouchers
• Cycle to work scheme
• Car lease scheme
• Free parking
• On‑site café with staff discount and more

Inclusion & Equality

Tees Valley is proud of its commitment to inclusion. Applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria will be offered an interview. If reasonable adjustments are required at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.