At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial planning for Adults and Public Health, ensuring accurate budget management.
- Company: Join a dynamic London-based Local Authority making a real impact in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and the potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Be a key player in strategic decision-making while building strong relationships with service managers.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified or similar finance qualification with experience in Local Government Finance Services.
- Other info: This is a 6-month interim role with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Interim Service Accountant
Location: Based in London, hybrid
Length: 6 months initially with possibility of extension
Inside IR35
We are working with a London-based Local Authority to recruit an interim Service Accountant, who will provide financial advice and support to the Adults and Public Health division.
Key Responsibilities of the Interim Service Accountant include:
- Co-ordinating both the revenue and capital budget preparation, budget monitoring and closure of accounts work for Adults and Public Health
- Building and maintaining strong and credible working relationships with service managers in the Directorate and acting as a ‘critical friend’ by providing support, advice and challenge on strategic and operational decision making
- Quality assuring managers’ forecasts and producing timely and accurate monthly capital and revenue monitoring reports, ensuring that variances are investigated and managed, risks are recognised, and forecasts are robust
Experience and knowledge required of the Interim Service Accountant:
- Extensive knowledge and experience of Local Government Finance Services, ideally in Adults and/or Public Health
- Sound forecasting, capital and revenue budget monitoring and annual budget setting experience
- Ability to provide constructive challenge and to challenge service managers
- CCAB qualified accountant or similar finance qualification
Service Accountant employer: Venn Group
Contact Detail:
Venn Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and practices of Local Government Finance Services, especially those related to Adults and Public Health. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in Local Authorities or similar roles. Engaging with them can provide insights into the challenges they face and the skills that are most valued, which can be a great advantage during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully managed budgets or provided financial advice. Having concrete examples ready will showcase your experience and ability to act as a 'critical friend' to service managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and changes in public health funding and local government finance. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your proactive approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in Local Government Finance Services, particularly in Adults and Public Health. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in budget preparation, monitoring, and financial advice.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are the ideal candidate for the Service Accountant role. Mention your CCAB qualification and how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on roles where you coordinated budgets, provided financial advice, or worked closely with service managers. Use metrics to quantify your achievements where possible.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a finance role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Venn Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Service Accountant, you'll be dealing with budgets and financial reports. Brush up on your knowledge of local government finance services, especially in the context of Adults and Public Health. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed budgets or provided financial advice in previous roles.
✨Build Rapport
Since the role involves working closely with service managers, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships. During the interview, highlight instances where you've successfully collaborated with others, acted as a 'critical friend', and provided constructive feedback.
✨Showcase Your Forecasting Skills
Forecasting is a key part of this role. Be ready to explain your approach to budget monitoring and how you've ensured accuracy in forecasts. Discuss any tools or methodologies you use to track variances and manage risks effectively.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to capital and revenue budget preparation. Review common challenges faced in local government finance and think about how you would address them. Being CCAB qualified is a plus, so be ready to discuss how your qualifications have equipped you for this role.