Senior Schools Accountant

Castlefield Recruitment are currently working with a local authority in the North West to recruit for a Senior Accountant within their Schools Division. The position will be for an initial 3 months and can offer hybrid or remote and flexible working.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee the financial aspects of the Designated Schools Grant and APT ensuring compliance with relevant policies and regulatioNS
• Develop and maintain detailed financial plans and budgets, MTFS, monitoring expenditures and variances to ensure effective fund utilisation
• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports, including budget forecasts, financial statements, and variance analyses
• Provide strategic financial advice to management, administrators, and other stakeholders to support informed decision-making
• Collaborate with various departments to ensure the efficient and effective allocation of financial resources
• Conduct financial analysis and risk assessments to identify potential issues and recommend corrective actions
• Ensure compliance with internal and external audit requirements, preparing for and responding to audit inquiries
• Stay up to date with changes in funding regulations and financial management practices, implementing necessary adjustments to processes and procedures

Person:

• A relevant professional qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, CPA) is highly desirable
• Proven experience in financial management, preferably within local authority
• In-depth knowledge of the Designated Schools Grant (DSG) and related financial regulations
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholder