Interim Principal Accountant - Local Authority

Full Job Description

Interim Principal Accountant - Local Authority

Location: South East

Salary: 450 - 500 per day

Hybrid: 2 days in the office

An Interim Principal Accountant is urgently required to work in a council based in the South East. Primary responsibilities will revolve around supporting the closure of accounts process, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, guidance, and legislation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide high-quality financial advice to senior stakeholders, fostering strong working relationships to identify opportunities for business improvements.
• Conduct rigorous analysis of budgets and forecasts, collaborating across the organisation to ensure robust financial controls and risk management.
• Support the Head of Business Partnering in driving a culture of continuous improvement.
• Assist in the statutory accounts closure process and the delivery of the Council's statement of accounts and associated financial returns.

Requirements:

• CCAB qualified accountant or significant experience in a senior role within a council.
• Experience of capital accounting within a local authority would be advantageous.
• Excellent IT skills, particularly in MS Excel.
• Confident communicator with the ability to build rapport and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Flexible approach with the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and work well under pressure with minimal supervision.
• Previous experience working within a local authority is essential.