Career Grade Principal Accountant

Bolton Council; Bolton; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in Bolton is seeking motivated finance professionals. The roles involve providing financial advice, ensuring governance, and driving transformation in a high-performing team. Candidates must be AAT qualified or CCAB/CIMA certified with leadership experience. A supportive work environment with professional development opportunities is offered.

Benefits

Discounts and exclusive gym membership prices

Generous annual leave allowance

Flexible work opportunities

Access to a Pension Scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in public sector finance and budget preparation.
• Proven leadership in financial management.
• Specified level of spoken English as per the person specification.

Responsibilities

• Provide financial advice and ensure robust financial governance.
• Drive transformation in finance processes.

Skills

Leadership in financial management

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to work collaboratively

Ability to work independently

Commitment to continuous improvement

Education

AAT qualified

CCAB or CIMA qualification

Job description

We embrace AI to enhance our operations and to innovate our services. However, we value human talent and are looking for passionate individuals to join our organisation. Please ensure you personally complete your application and read all the instructions carefully to maximise your chances of success.

Bolton Council are looking for two motivated and skilled finance professionals to join our Finance Team. Whether you're an AAT qualified experienced Finance Officer or a CCAB/CIMA part qualified/qualified Senior Finance Officer, we have exciting opportunities to join a high‑performing team, providing financial advice, driving transformation, and ensuring robust financial governance across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Experience in public sector finance, budget preparation, and financial reporting is essential. Successful applicants must also possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively as well as independently, and a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.

The successful candidate will bring high‑level financial management and technical accounting expertise, excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage senior stakeholders.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum essential criteria at Grade G: AAT qualified or the equivalent.
• For appointment at Grade H: CCAB or CIMA qualification by examination.
• Proven leadership in financial management is also essential.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and development.
• Specified level of spoken English as per the person specification.
• Customer facing role under the fluency duty.

Conditions of Employment

Grade: G scp 23 – 34,434 to H scp 41,771

Contract: Permanent

Salary: 34,434 to 41,771

Job status: NEW

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.

Benefits

We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment, opportunities for professional development and career progression, and a chance to make a real impact in a forward‑thinking local authority.

Exclusive rewards and benefits, including discounts and exclusive gym membership prices and salary sacrifice schemes. A generous annual leave allowance, flexible work opportunities, access to a Pension Scheme, and a range of employee wellbeing and support services.

About Bolton

Bolton is a great place to work. We are a welcoming organisation that wants to contribute to a place where people feel active, connected and prosperous. We are passionate about improving the outcomes and experience of Bolton people. We want Bolton to be a vibrant place built on strong cohesive communities, successful businesses and healthy, engaged residents.