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- Tasks: Join our Finance Management Team and support key corporate services with financial expertise.
- Company: Wakefield Council, a leading employer committed to best practices and staff well-being.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, training opportunities, and great employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial management while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Qualifications: CCAB-qualified with experience in management accounting and strong IT skills.
- Other info: Access to excellent career progression and a range of employee support products.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for a qualified and experienced Principal Management / Financial Accountant to join our Financial Management Team.
This is an exciting opportunity to become a crucial part of our Finance Management Team at Wakefield Council. The Principal Management / Financial Accountants positions are an integral role within our service which supports both the Group Finance Managers and Chief Finance Officer secure proper stewardship of Council resources and deliver effective financial management arrangements across the Council.
The successful candidate will initially be working within the council's Financial Management Team supporting key corporate services such as Legal and Governance, HR and Business Transformation (Technology). You will assist Group Finance Managers in developing the Council's forward-looking Medium Term Financial Strategy, having regard to estimates of future government funding and other income and cost pressures resulting from demand for council services, inflationary or legislative changes.
You will coordinate with the Group Finance Manager, and liaise with Financial Management and operational managers, on the production of both revenue and capital estimates and Final Accounts, in accordance with statutory and best practice requirements, whilst ensuring auditable systems and procedures are in place to demonstrate adherence to policies. You will assist the Group Finance Manager to ensure effective management of service resources and budgets. Contribute to the development and improvement of services provided by supporting operational management with regular financial information for analysis, forecasting and strategic planning, and by providing sound financial advice.
Why Wakefield Council? We are a leading Council for best practice and an employer of choice for individuals seeking a rewarding role and career. We offer a flexible full-time hybrid working pattern of 37 hours per week, aiming to work 2 days in the office per week. Support and access to high-quality training offer to help progress your career to the next level. We are committed to supporting the well-being of our staff and we recognise that a resilient Team need a good work/life balance as well as supportive leadership and support in the workplace. Access to a range of employee support products, discounted and subsidised public transport (Arriva Bus Annual Travel Ticket, Northern Trains Limited (NTL), MetroCard), the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), and a great range of benefits including discounted membership to our excellent leisure facilities with free 12 weeks exercise program with a dedicated personal trainer, discounts for a range of retail, entertainment, health and leisure providers, cycle to work scheme and many more.
Essential requirements:
- CCAB-qualified (or equivalent)
- Detailed knowledge of current management accounting and financial accounting principles
- Understanding of the finance and legislative framework of public finance
- Proven experience in managing staff
- Proven IT skills including use of Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint as well as the use of computerised finance systems
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. We check applications daily.
Principal Management / Financial Accountant in Wakefield employer: Wakefield Metropolitan District Council
Contact Detail:
Wakefield Metropolitan District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Management / Financial Accountant in Wakefield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might have insights into Wakefield Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of public finance and current management accounting principles. We want you to shine when discussing how you can contribute to the Council's financial strategies!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your IT skills! Be ready to demonstrate your proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other finance systems during interviews. We know these tools are crucial for the role, so let’s make sure you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we check applications daily, so the sooner you apply, the better!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Management / Financial Accountant in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Management / Financial Accountant role. Highlight your CCAB qualifications and relevant experience in management accounting and financial principles. We want to see how your skills align with 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 our Financial Management Team. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to financial strategies or managed resources effectively in previous roles.
Showcase Your IT Skills: Since we value strong IT skills, especially in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, make sure to mention any relevant experience. If you've used computerised finance systems, give us the details – we love to see that tech-savvy side!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We check applications daily and may close the vacancy early if we find the right candidate. Head over to our website and get your application in as soon as possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wakefield Metropolitan District Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Principal Management / Financial Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial principles. Brush up on current management and financial accounting standards, and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles. Prepare examples that showcase your understanding of public finance and how it impacts decision-making.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing staff and collaborating with various teams. Be prepared to share specific instances where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight your ability to provide sound financial advice and support operational management, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Council's Goals
Research Wakefield Council's Medium Term Financial Strategy and any recent initiatives they’ve undertaken. Understanding their objectives will allow you to tailor your responses and show how your skills can contribute to their goals. It also demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your IT skills, especially with Microsoft Excel and finance systems. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your previous roles to manage budgets, forecasts, and financial reports. If possible, bring examples of your work or be prepared to explain your approach to solving financial problems using technology.