Deputy Chief Accountant

Allen Lane are delighted to be supporting a London Borough Council in their search for a Deputy Chief Accountant to join their finance team on a permanent basis.

The Role

The Deputy Chief Accountant is a key position and will assist in overseeing the financial operations of the Council, supporting the Chief Accountant, and ensuring compliance with local government financial regulations and policies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the Chief Accountant in managing the financial affairs of the Council, ensuring accurate reporting and compliance with accounting standards and local government regulations.
• Provide cover for the Chief Accountant when needed
• Supervise and support the finance team, providing guidance on financial management practices.
• Contribute to the preparation of the Council’s budget, final accounts, and other financial statements in line with statutory deadlines. Providing financial advice to budget holders.
• Ensure effective financial controls are in place, identifying and managing risks across financial systems.
• Liaise with internal and external auditors to facilitate audit processes.
• Monitor and review financial processes and systems, recommending improvements where necessary.

Key Requirements:

• A professional accounting qualification (ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, or equivalent).
• Significant experience in local government accounting and financial management.
• Strong knowledge of local government finance regulations, accounting standards, and budgetary control.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• High proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office, especially Excel.

Application Details:

• Closing Date: Thursday 2nd January 2025
• Interview Date: To be confirmed

Please apply early as this vacancy may close ahead of the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

We look forward to receiving your application.