At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide financial support and advice to help manage budgets and deliver efficiency.
- Company: Local Authority in North West London with a focus on community service.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work on impactful projects.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and play a key role in local government finance.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or part-qualified CCAB with relevant accounting experience.
You will provide proactive, user-focused financial support to service areas, helping them effectively manage their finances and deliver efficiency programmes. The role will involve producing accurate financial information and supporting the council through the budget cycle, financial monitoring, and accounts closure.
Key Responsibilities
- Work with budget holders to deliver the three core stages of the annual budget cycle: budget setting, budget monitoring, and accounts closure across both capital and revenue.
- Provide high-quality financial advice and challenge to support operational decision making.
- Build strong working relationships with internal services and relevant external stakeholders.
- Provide accurate financial information for statistical returns, FOI requests and internal reporting.
- Ensure compliance with financial controls, standing orders, and the scheme of delegation.
- Provide financial expertise and support on specific projects and initiatives.
- Work with managers and budget holders to identify and mitigate financial risks.
- Deputise for the Group Accountant where required, including oversight of Accountancy Assistants.
Requirements
- Fully qualified AAT or part-qualified CCAB, or relevant accounting experience within a large organisation.
- Experience in a customer-focused management accounting environment.
- Strong experience with cost centre management, including budget setting, monitoring and accounts closure (capital and revenue).
- Experience working closely with budget holders and service managers.
- Understanding of local government finance and services.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess financial information and risks to support decision making.
PLEASE NOTE: All applications are monitored and shortlisted candidates will be contacted via phone call or email.
Service Accountant employer: Vox Consultants
As a Service Accountant with our Local Authority in North West London, you will thrive in a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. We offer competitive daily rates, hybrid working arrangements, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local services while ensuring financial efficiency and compliance. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values your expertise and fosters strong relationships within the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who work in local authorities. 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 knowledge of local government finance. Be ready to discuss how you can help with budget setting and monitoring. Show them you know your stuff!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Service Accountant role. We’re always on the lookout for talent, and applying directly can give you a leg up in the process!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Service Accountant role. Highlight your relevant experience in budget setting, monitoring, and accounts closure. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience with financial advice and working with budget holders, and don’t forget to show your enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since strong analytical skills are key for this role, make sure to include examples of how you've assessed financial information and mitigated risks in your previous roles. We love seeing real-life applications of your skills!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Good luck!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vox Consultants
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around budget setting and monitoring. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed budgets or provided financial advice.
✨Understand Local Government Finance
Familiarise yourself with the nuances of local government finance. Research recent changes or challenges in the sector, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role's context.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships with budget holders and service managers. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your collaborative approach and how you've effectively communicated financial information in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask you to solve hypothetical financial issues or assess risks. Practise articulating your thought process clearly, as this will showcase your analytical skills and decision-making abilities.
