Chief Accountant

Devon County Council; Devon and Torbay; On-site; GBP 61,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Devon is seeking an exceptional Chief Accountant to lead strategic accounting and ensure compliance. The role involves driving excellence in financial reporting, overseeing strategic accounting for various funds, and providing guidance to senior leadership. Candidates must be fully qualified accountants with significant experience in local government and strong leadership skills. The position offers a competitive salary, flexible working options, and relocation support.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible working options

Relocation packages available

Qualifications

• Significant local government experience.
• In-depth knowledge of CIPFA / LASAAC Code of Practice and IFRS.
• Proven ability to deliver statutory accounts and manage external audits.

Responsibilities

• Drive excellence in financial reporting and ensure compliance.
• Oversee strategic accounting for revenue, capital, and pension funds.
• Provide expert advice to senior leaders on financial matters.

Skills

Financial reporting excellence

Compliance with regulations

Leadership and communication

Education

Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, ICAEW or equivalent)

Job description

Salary: £72,435

Relocation packages are available for exceptional candidates out of area.

Do it to Lead Strategic Accounting at the Heart of Local Government. Do it for Devon.

Are you ready to lead on statutory accounting for one of the largest local authorities in the country? Devon County Council is seeking an exceptional Chief Accountant to provide strategic financial leadership and ensure the highest standards of compliance and governance.

About the role

As the Council’s statutory accounting lead, you will :

• Drive excellence in financial reporting and ensure compliance with regulatory developments.
• Oversee strategic and compliant accounting for revenue, capital and ethe Devon Pension Fund.
• Provide expert advice to senior leaders and elected Members on complex financial matters.
• Lead a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Devon is proud to be an CIPFA Platinum Accredited Employer, ACCA Approved Employer, and a CIMA Premier Partner. We are dedicated to supporting your professional qualifications and ongoing development, offering a strong team spirit and a positive culture within a challenging yet genuinely supportive and collaborative environment

About you

You’ll play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Council’s financial integrity, influencing multi-million-pound budgets, and shaping long-term financial sustainability. This is an opportunity to make a real impact in a challenging and rewarding environment.

• Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, ICAEW or equivalent) with significant local government experience.
• In-depth knowledge of CIPFA / LASAAC Code of Practice and IFRS.
• Proven ability to deliver statutory accounts and manage external audits for large organisations.
• Strong leadership, influencing, and communication skills to operate at the highest level.

Why Devon?

Devon County Council is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK. Whether you’re drawn to the coast, countryside, or vibrant city life, Devon has something for everyone. We offer a modern, dynamic workplace with flexible working options and relocation support to help you settle in.

Serving over 800,000 residents across a diverse and thriving county, Devon County Council is proud to make a real difference. We provide rewarding careers, competitive salaries, generous leave, and flexible working arrangements. Join us to shape policy, influence service delivery, and help build a fairer, greener, and more prosperous future for all.