Principal Accountant - Corporate Services

Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council; West Malling; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in West Malling is seeking a Principal Accountant to oversee treasury management and capital investment accounting. This role involves leading a team, preparing financial reports, and providing expert advice to support budget delivery. Candidates should be fully qualified CCAB accountants with significant experience and strong communication skills. The position offers a competitive salary and a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• At least two years' post-qualification experience in financial roles.
• Significant experience in treasury management and/or capital accounting.

Responsibilities

• Lead on treasury management and capital investment accounting for the Council.
• Manage and develop the Accountancy team for excellence.
• Prepare annual Capital and Treasury Management Investment Strategies.
• Provide expert financial advice to service managers and directors.
• Influence financial decisions in Council and Committees.
• Drive efficiency in service delivery.

Skills

Exceptional communication

Relationship-building

Staff management

Influencing

Negotiation

Presentation of financial information

Education

Fully qualified CCAB accountant

Job description

Please apply online. If this is not possible, please contact a member of the HR team by emailing [e-mail]

Are you an experienced financial professional looking to make a significant impact within a collaborative finance team?

We're seeking a dynamic Principal Accountant to join our Finance service, working alongside another Principal Accountant and reporting to the Financial Services Manager. Together, you'll play a key role in treasury management and capital investment accounting for the Council.

What You'll Do

• Lead on all treasury management and capital investment accounting for the Council, ensuring robust stewardship and innovative financial solutions.
• Shared responsibility for the management and development of the Accountancy team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Prepare and coordinate annual Capital and Treasury Management Investment Strategies, closure of accounts, and key financial reports for Members and senior management.
• Provide expert financial advice, interpreting legislation and supporting service managers and directors to deliver within budget.
• Represent Finance at Council, Cabinet, Committees, and working groups, influencing decisions that shape our community's future.
• Champion customer care and best practice, driving efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies, supporting a safe and positive working environment.

What We're Looking For

• Qualifications: Fully qualified CCAB accountant with at least two years' post-qualification experience and a commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Expertise: Significant experience in treasury management and/or capital accounting, with a strong grasp of financial policies, procedures, and government funding arrangements.
• Skills: Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and staff management skills. Able to influence, negotiate, and present complex financial information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Personal Qualities: Enthusiastic, pragmatic, and resilient, with a positive, 'can-do' attitude and a drive to achieve results and meet deadlines.
• Desirable: Knowledge of CIPFA codes, financial modelling, and strategic financial planning.

Why Join Us?

You'll play a pivotal role in supporting the Council's financial health and strategic ambitions, working in a collaborative environment where your expertise will make a real difference. We value innovation, professional growth, and a supportive team culture.

Discover what it's like to work at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and explore the benefits we offer by clicking here: Working for us - Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Donna Riley, Financial Services Manager, on 01732 876381. (direct candidates only please).

Closing Date 23 November 2025. Interviews w/c 1 Decemeber 2025

Salary range

• £60,477 - £63,924 per year