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- Tasks: Assist with financial planning, budget monitoring, and reporting in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join the West Lothian Civic Centre, a key player in local government services.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and a supportive work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing team making a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: HNC in Accounting or related field; AAT membership or part-qualified CCAB/CIMA preferred.
- Other info: Diverse workforce encouraged; training support available for the right candidate.
The predicted salary is between 38141 - 41764 £ per year.
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Location: West Lothian Civic Centre Howden South Road Livingston, EH54 6FF
Salary: £38,141 – £41,764 per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Position Type: Full Time
Hours: 36 hours per week
Work From Home: Hybrid
Job Advert
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds
Finance and Property Services plays a key role within the council including the delivery of frontline services to the public in West Lothian. As part of Finance and Property Services, the council’s Financial Management Unit (FMU) is recognised as a high performing unit with a key role in ensuring the council makes the most effective use of resources to support delivery of services to customers.
The current economic climate demonstrates the importance of sound financial planning and financial support within local government. An opportunity has arisen within FMU for the recruitment of an assistant accountant to undertake a role within the unit to provide support on financial planning, budget monitoring and financial reporting exercises and processes in line with the council’s financial strategies by working closely with senior managers across the council.
This interesting and challenging assistant accountant role is responsible for a portfolio of services and will carry out their duties with a level of supervision using initiative and independence. The post requires professional accounting expertise and the ability to communicate effectively with finance colleagues and a wide range of staff throughout the council and in external organisations. The post requires knowledge of corporate and service issues, as well as consideration of wider environmental and political factors.
As part of a highly motivated team you should have the ability to operate successfully in a dynamic working environment, with a proactive attitude and approach.
The council presently has a supporting flexible working pilot to support the workforce to deliver critical services whilst maintaining a work-life balance and this currently allows a hybrid working arrangement for this post.
You will have an HNC in Accounting or related subject, membership of AAT or part qualified accountancy qualification (CCAB or CIMA), with a knowledge of local government finance.
While this is not a trainee role, consideration would also be given to support the successful candidate with further professional training.
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Assistant Accountant, West Lothian Civic Centre, 493.95 employer: West Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
West Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Accountant, West Lothian Civic Centre, 493.95
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and practices within local government. Understanding how these differ from private sector accounting can give you an edge in interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the West Lothian Civic Centre. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with budget monitoring and financial reporting in detail. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your proactive attitude by preparing questions about the council's financial strategies and how you can contribute to them. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Accountant, West Lothian Civic Centre, 493.95
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Assistant Accountant role. Emphasise your accounting qualifications, such as your HNC in Accounting or AAT membership, and any experience in local government finance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the council's mission. Mention specific examples of how your skills and experiences make you a great fit for the role, particularly in financial planning and budget monitoring.
Highlight Soft Skills: In your application, don't forget to mention your soft skills, such as communication and teamwork. The role requires effective communication with various stakeholders, so demonstrating these abilities will strengthen your application.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in accounting roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Assistant Accountant, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of financial concepts. Brush up on key accounting principles and be prepared to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles or studies.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
This role requires effective communication with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex financial information to non-financial colleagues or clients.
✨Understand Local Government Finance
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial challenges and regulations that local government faces. Being able to discuss these topics will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Demonstrate Proactivity
The job description highlights the need for a proactive attitude. Think of instances where you've taken the initiative in your work or studies, and be ready to share these examples during the interview.
