Interim Strategic Group Accountant - High Needs & SEND

i-jobs; Greater London; On-site; GBP 154,291,200 - 157,046,400; Full time

Job summary

i-jobs is recruiting an Interim Group Accountant for the High Needs Block in Ilford. You will lead strategic financial management and act as the principal finance lead for the High Needs Block, advising senior managers and stakeholders.

You will oversee monthly/quarterly budget monitoring, forecasting, and reporting, build complex financial models, and support transformation programmes while ensuring regulatory compliance and producing statutory accounts.

Qualifications

• CCAB or CIMA qualified or substantial senior-level finance experience.
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD).

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of strategic financial management and business partnering services across Education, Inclusion, and SEND services.
• Act as the principal finance lead for the High Needs Block, providing expert financial advice to senior managers and stakeholders.
• Prepare and deliver monthly and quarterly budget monitoring, financial forecasting, and performance reports.
• Develop complex financial models, scenario planning, and options appraisals to support strategic decision-making.
• Support service transformation programmes through financial analysis, business case development, and investment appraisals.
• Identify financial risks, develop mitigation strategies, and support the delivery of savings and recovery plans.
• Produce statutory financial reports, support the year-end closedown process, and contribute to the preparation of the Statement of Accounts.
• Ensure compliance with local authority financial regulations, statutory accounting requirements, and audit standards.
• Develop and improve financial systems, controls, reporting processes, and management information.
• Provide financial guidance to budget holders to promote value for money and sustainable financial management.
• Advise on funding opportunities, policy changes, and the financial implications of service developments.
• Prepare and present financial reports to senior leadership, elected Members, committees, and external stakeholders.
• Represent the Council at regional and national meetings, forums, and partnership groups.
• Lead, manage, mentor, and develop the SEND Finance Team, ensuring high-quality service delivery and staff performance.
• Promote continuous improvement, collaboration, and customer-focused financial services across the organisation.

Skills

Financial analysis

Forecasting

Modelling

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

CCAB or CIMA

CPD

Tools

Microsoft Office

Financial systems

Job description

i-jobs is recruiting an Interim Group Accountant for the High Needs Block in Ilford. You will lead strategic financial management and act as the principal finance lead for the High Needs Block, advising senior managers and stakeholders.

You will oversee monthly/quarterly budget monitoring, forecasting, and reporting, build complex financial models, and support transformation programmes while ensuring regulatory compliance and producing statutory accounts.