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- Tasks: Lead financial planning for housing projects and manage a £30M budget.
- Company: Join Wiltshire Council, a supportive workplace focused on community and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy a friendly work environment with a commitment to diversity and employee well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on housing delivery while working with passionate professionals.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in housing finance within local authorities is essential.
- Other info: This role may require successful security checks; check your spam folder for updates.
The predicted salary is between 47754 - 49764 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Principal Accountant who can lead with confidence, provide expert financial insight, and drive high-quality financial management across a complex and dynamic organisation. If you thrive on delivering excellence, influencing senior leaders, and solving complex financial challenges, this role offers the opportunity to make real impact. Joining our Finance Service means becoming part of a high-performing team that supports strategic decision-making across the council. You will work alongside talented professionals, gain exposure to major projects, and develop your career within an organisation committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and strong financial governance. With access to modern systems, development pathways and a supportive leadership environment, youll help shape long-term financial planning and ensure the council delivers best value for its residents. In this role, you will be the strategic and professional lead for treasury and Taxation support and advice. Managing all aspects of tax planning, borrowing, VAT and cash reporting and compliance across the Council. You will be a fully qualified CCAB accountant with significant post-qualification experience in budgeting, statutory accounting, and financial analysis. You will bring proven leadership skills, experience working with senior stakeholders, strong analytical ability, excellent communication skills, and the confidence to interpret legislation and guide financial decision-making in a fast-paced environment. If you are ready to take the next step and play a key role in shaping the future of our financial performance, we would love to hear from you.
Principal Accountant employer: Wiltshire Council
Contact Detail:
Wiltshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Wiltshire Council's housing initiatives and financial strategies. Understanding their current projects and priorities will help you demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in local authority finance, especially those involved in housing. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in housing finance, particularly any strategic planning you've done. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your expertise and impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the principles of inclusion and diversity as outlined by Wiltshire Council. Being able to articulate how you align with their values can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Principal Accountant position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities, such as overseeing capital accounting and managing housing rent setting, to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your extensive experience in housing finance within a local authority setting. Provide specific examples of how you've contributed to financial planning and strategic decision-making in previous roles.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your commitment to making a positive impact on housing delivery. Mention your alignment with the council's values and your understanding of their priorities.
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 for a financial role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Principal Accountant, you'll be expected to have a strong grasp of financial data. Brush up on key figures related to housing finance, such as the £30M HRA Business Plan and how it impacts housing initiatives. Be prepared to discuss your experience with capital accounting and financing.
✨Understand the Council's Priorities
Familiarise yourself with Wiltshire Council's goals and how they relate to housing delivery. This will help you align your answers with their strategic vision and demonstrate that you're not just a numbers person, but someone who understands the bigger picture.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific financial challenges or scenarios related to housing projects. Think about past experiences where you've successfully navigated similar situations and be ready to share those examples.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves working closely with senior leadership, highlight your experience in providing high-quality financial analysis and expert advice. Discuss how you've influenced decision-making in previous roles and how you can bring that expertise to Wiltshire Council.