Principal Accountant

Principal AccountantLocation: EssexContract: Temporary (6-month initial) Rate: £400 - £450 per day umbrellaStart Date: ASAP*Hybrid Working* Contact:

Job DescriptionService Care Solutions are currently recruiting on behalf of a Local Authority in Essex for a Principal Accountant to join the team on a temporary basis. The Principal Accountant will plan and co-ordinate the final accounts process including liaison with external audit Act as the lead advisor on technical accounting, including Collection Fund, Pensions and VAT.

Main Responsibilities

• Line management responsibility for the Technical Accountant, including one to one review meetings, appraisals, leave booking and work allocation.
• Support the implementation of policies and strategies for the financial service to support service delivery, value for money and the delivery of the Council's priorities and defined outcomes.
• Prepare the treasury elements of the statement of accounts in accordance with statutory requirement.
• Lead in the preparation and publication of the Statement of Accounts including producing notes to the accounts and professional working papers.
• Contribute to the MTFS in relation to technical areas.
• Take lead responsibility for technical accounting policies and strategies.
• Lead on the Collection Fund, Pensions, VAT and any other technical or specialist requirements of the finance team.
• Prepare the Capital & Investment Strategy by undertaking relevant research to ensure documents remain up to date and ensure best practice is applied.
• Ensure all government returns are completed on time and correctly.
• Provide professional advice and tailored reports to a defined group within the Council, on their financial plans and projects.

CandidateCriteria

• CCAB/CIPFA Qualified Accountant
• Experience of leading the preparation/publication of the Statement of Accounts
• Experience of Collection Fund, Treasury, Pensions, VAT or HRA would be highly desirable
• Experience of leading accounts processes for a Local Government is essential
• Great communication skills and ability to work professionally and adapt to any team fit.

If you are interested in the role, or know of anyone who may be, please contact Greg at Service Care Solutions on or email

Service Care Solutions also offers a £250 referral bonus! So, if you know of anyone who would be perfect for this position and they are placed into work, you will receive £250 for the referral once their probationary period has been completed.