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- Tasks: Lead financial accounting and ensure compliance with regulations for the council.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council committed to transparency and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a commitment to equality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy and governance in your community.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in financial management and project leadership.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career advancement and skill development.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Strategic Finance Lead to oversee all aspects of financial accounting for the council. This is a senior technical role, responsible for producing accurate and compliant financial records, the annual Statement of Accounts, and key government returns.
You will be the council's expert on financial accounting regulations, providing advice and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. Your work will include managing treasury strategy, VAT and tax returns, insurance, and technical areas such as asset accounting and the Collection Fund. You'll also oversee financial controls, risk management policies, and ensure robust data for decision-making.
This role involves leading complex projects, including the production of the annual accounts—a highly technical process requiring precision and attention to detail. You'll provide strategic financial advice, build long-term financial models, and represent the council in government consultations.
Responsibilities- Lead and oversee all aspects of financial accounting for the council, including the annual Statement of Accounts and key government returns.
- Act as the council's expert on financial accounting regulations, providing advice and ensuring statutory compliance.
- Manage treasury strategy, VAT and tax returns, insurance, asset accounting, the Collection Fund, and related technical areas.
- Oversee financial controls, risk management policies, and ensure robust data for decision-making.
- Lead complex projects and the production of the annual accounts, with precision and attention to detail.
- Provide strategic financial advice, build long-term financial models, and represent the council in government consultations.
- Fully qualified accountant (CCAB) with extensive experience in financial management, technical accounting, and interpreting complex regulations.
- Proven track record of delivering at a senior level, leading teams, and managing large-scale financial projects.
- Strong analytical skills, advanced Excel, and knowledge of SAP or similar financial systems.
Commitment to Equality: Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme. A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer.
Strategic Finance Lead employer: Wiltshire Council
Contact Detail:
Wiltshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Finance Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Since this role requires expertise in financial regulations and accounting, make sure you can confidently discuss these topics and showcase your analytical skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—focus on roles that excite you! Use our website to find positions that match your skills and interests. Tailor your approach to each opportunity to show why you’re the best fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you another chance to highlight your qualifications.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Finance Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Strategic Finance Lead role. Highlight your experience in financial management and technical accounting, and don’t forget to showcase your analytical skills and proficiency in Excel!
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 specific projects you've led and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance is key in this role, be sure to mention your expertise in financial accounting regulations. Share examples of how you've ensured compliance in previous positions to demonstrate your capability.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Strategic Finance Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial accounting. Brush up on key financial regulations and be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles. Prepare examples of how you've managed treasury strategies or handled VAT and tax returns.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
This role involves leading complex projects, so be prepared to share specific instances where you've successfully overseen large-scale financial projects. Highlight your attention to detail and how you ensure accuracy in the production of annual accounts.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Prowess
Strong analytical skills are crucial for this position. Be ready to discuss how you've used advanced Excel techniques or financial systems like SAP to analyse data and support decision-making. Consider bringing a case study or example that showcases your analytical capabilities.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
You'll be providing strategic financial advice, so think about how you can articulate your approach to building long-term financial models. Be prepared to discuss how you've represented your organisation in consultations and the impact of your advice on financial outcomes.
