Chief Accountant

Cedar; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to lead the financial accounting function within a local authority. This interim role offers a competitive daily rate and the opportunity to make a significant impact on financial reporting and compliance. As a strategic leader, you will guide a high-performing finance team, ensure adherence to statutory regulations, and provide crucial financial advice to support decision-making. If you are passionate about public service and have a strong background in financial management, this role presents a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the achievement of the authority's objectives while fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Fully qualified accountant with significant experience in local authority finance.
• Proven track record in preparing statutory accounts and managing audits.

Responsibilities

• Lead the financial accounting function and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Oversee the preparation of annual accounts and financial reports.

Skills

Financial Management

Statutory Accounting

Budget Management

Team Leadership

Compliance with IFRS

Public Service Values

Education

Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, ACA, CIMA)

Tools

Financial Software Systems

Job description

Delivery Consultant - Procurement, Finance & Commercial Management

Chief Accountant - Interim - £500-£700 per day - 2 Days in per week

Cedar Recruitment are currently seeking and experienced Chief Accountant to work for an London Authority on an interim basis. The contract will be for an initial 3 months and is offering between £500-£700 per day Inside IR35

The main purpose of the role is to lead the financial accounting function within the local authority, ensuring compliance with statutory regulations, delivering robust financial reporting, and providing strategic financial advice to support effective decision-making and the achievement of the authority's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for the financial accounting team.
• Act as the primary advisor on technical accounting matters, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, and standards (e.g., CIPFA Code of Practice)
• Lead the preparation of the annual accounts in accordance with statutory deadlines and requirements
• Oversee the production of accurate and timely financial reports, including monthly management accounts, annual budgets, and statutory financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and local authority-specific accounting regulations.
• Manage the relationship with external auditors, addressing audit queries and ensuring smooth audit processes.
• Support the preparation of the medium-term financial strategy, ensuring alignment with the authority's strategic goals.
• Monitor and report on the authority's financial performance, identifying risks and opportunities.
• Ensure robust budgetary controls are in place across all departments.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, standing orders, and statutory requirements.
• Maintain and update financial policies and procedures, promoting best practices across the authority.
• Support the development and implementation of internal controls to mitigate financial risks.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the finance team, ensuring high performance and continuous professional development.
• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability within the finance function.
• Provide financial advice and guidance to elected members, senior management, and service managers.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with external stakeholders, including government agencies and auditors.
• Drive improvements in financial systems and processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial software systems.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Fully qualified accountant (e.g., CIPFA, ACCA, ACA, or CIMA).
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).
• Significant experience in financial management within a local authority.
• Proven track record of preparing statutory accounts and managing audits.
• Experience in leading and developing high-performing teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets and financial planning processes.
• Comprehensive understanding of local authority finance, including funding mechanisms, statutory responsibilities, and financial regulations
• Strong knowledge of IFRS and the CIPFA Code of Practice
• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines
• Commitment to public service values and the delivery of high-quality services.

If this role sounds of interest, then please do come back to me and should you meet the requirements then I will give you a call to discuss it further.