Accountant

Job Description

6 months contract with a local authority

Rate: £26 per hour umbrella

Summary

• This 6-month contract role with a local authority offers an opportunity to provide expert accountancy support within the Finance Directorate. The position is crucial for ensuring effective financial management, adherence to statutory and regulatory standards, and delivering high-quality financial services. The successful candidate will offer financial advice, monitor budgets, maintain financial controls, and contribute to the Council's Section 151 responsibilities. Additionally, the role involves supporting service improvements, business change initiatives, and achieving value-for-money outcomes across the organization.
  

Responsibilities

• Provide expert financial advice and support to managers and service areas.
  
• Assist in the preparation, monitoring, and management of revenue and capital budgets.
  
• Conduct financial forecasting and identify budget pressures, risks, and opportunities.
  
• Prepare management accounts, financial reports, and performance information for stakeholders.
  
• Maintain effective financial controls and ensure compliance with financial regulations, policies, and procedures.
  
• Perform balance sheet reconciliations and investigate any discrepancies.
  
• Support the preparation of statutory accounts, financial statements, and audit requirements.
  
• Assist with grant claims, financial returns, and external reporting obligations.
  
• Liaise with internal and external auditors, providing necessary financial information.
  
• Contribute to service improvement initiatives and the development of financial management processes.
  
• Support budget holders in understanding financial performance and achieving value for money.
  
• Ensure accurate maintenance of financial records and systems.
  

Requirements:

• Experience working within a finance or accountancy environment.
  
• Experience in budget preparation, monitoring, and forecasting.
  
• Experience producing financial reports and management information.
  
• Experience with financial reconciliations and maintaining effective financial controls.
  
• AAT qualified, part-qualified CCAB/CIMA accountant, or equivalent relevant qualification.
  
• A degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related subject is desirable.
  
• Evidence of continuing professional development.
  
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial management practices.
  

Additional Information

• Working hours: 35 hours per week.
  
• Payment is on a bi-weekly schedule.
  
• The role closes on 16th October 2026; apply ASAP.
  

Requirements
To provide professional accountancy support within the Finance Directorate, ensuring effective financial management, compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, and the delivery of high-quality financial services