At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and support strategic decision-making for a local authority.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority committed to effective financial governance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and potential for hybrid working in the future.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and supportive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community finances while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified accountant with strong financial management experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
A local authority is looking to appoint an experienced Principal Accountant to deliver a comprehensive financial management and accountancy service across the organisation. This is a key role supporting revenue budget monitoring, annual budget setting, medium-term financial planning, statutory accounts and financial reporting. The successful candidate will work closely with senior managers, the Finance Manager, auditors and wider services to provide professional financial advice, challenge budgets and support strategic decision making.
Key responsibilities
- Leading and supporting budget monitoring and forecasting processes
- Assisting with the annual budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy
- Producing and supporting year-end accounts and statutory returns
- Liaising with internal and external auditors
- Providing financial guidance on projects, initiatives and service planning
- Supporting committee reports and financial compliance
- Supervising and supporting finance team staff
- Bank administration, BACS and payment responsibilities
Essential requirements
- CCAB qualified accountant
- Strong accountancy and financial management background
- Experience in budgeting, forecasting and annual accounts
- Ability to interpret complex financial legislation and explain financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders
- Excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills
Desirable
- Local government finance experience
- CIPFA qualification
- Experience with capital accounting, treasury management, VAT, payroll or council tax/business rates
Working hours
Monday to Thursday - 8:30am to 5:00pm
Friday - 8:30am to 4:45pm
This role is fully office based initially, with hybrid working potentially considered in the future for the right candidate.
Senior Principal Accountant. Job in Bideford LilyLifestyle Jobs in Northam employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
As a local authority in Bideford, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values professional growth and community impact. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing employees with opportunities to develop their skills while contributing to meaningful financial management that directly benefits the community. With a commitment to work-life balance and potential for hybrid working arrangements, we offer a rewarding environment for those looking to make a difference in public service.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Principal Accountant. Job in Bideford LilyLifestyle Jobs in Northam
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial knowledge and current trends in local government finance. We recommend practising common interview questions and having examples ready that showcase your budgeting and forecasting skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Senior Principal Accountant role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Principal Accountant. Job in Bideford LilyLifestyle Jobs in Northam
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in financial management and accountancy. We want to see how your skills match the key responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your budgeting and forecasting expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Principal Accountant role. We love seeing candidates who can clearly communicate their financial knowledge and how they can support strategic decision-making.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your CCAB qualification and any relevant experience in local government finance. We’re looking for someone with a strong background, so make sure to highlight your qualifications and any specific projects that demonstrate your skills.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Principal Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and forecasts in the past. Use specific examples to showcase your experience.
✨Understand the Local Authority Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the local authority's financial challenges and priorities. Research recent budget reports or financial strategies they've implemented. This will show that you're not just qualified but also genuinely interested in their operations.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about complex financial legislation and how you would explain it to non-financial stakeholders. Practice articulating these concepts clearly and concisely, as this is crucial for the role. Think of scenarios where you've had to simplify financial information for others.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be supervising finance team staff, be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share examples of how you've supported and developed your team in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have in guiding projects or initiatives that required collaboration across departments.
