Principal Finance Officer: Budgeting & Forecasting

Carrington Blake Recruitment; Walthamstow; Hybrid; GBP 52,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

Carrington Blake Recruitment is seeking a Principal Finance Officer to support the Council’s financial management services. You will work with finance colleagues, managers and budget holders to support budgeting, forecasting and reporting across the organisation.

Key responsibilities include monitoring budgets, analysing reports, advising on financial decisions, and assisting with year-end processes and statutory returns. DBS check required and role may operate across council locations.

Qualifications

• Experience in financial management, budget monitoring, forecasting and financial reporting.
• Ability to interpret financial information and identify variances.
• Experience providing financial advice to managers or budget holders.
• Strong understanding of financial controls, accounting procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Support the preparation and monitoring of annual revenue and capital budgets, forecasts and medium-term financial plans.
• Prepare and analyse financial reports, identifying spending trends, variances, risks and opportunities.
• Provide financial advice to service managers and budget holders to inform decisions.
• Investigate discrepancies, overspend and reconciliation issues and recommend corrective action.
• Support year-end processes including accounts and supporting documentation.
• Assist with statutory financial returns to government departments and external bodies.
• Maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with procedures and reporting requirements.
• Work with auditors and provide supporting financial information.
• Contribute to improving financial systems, controls and reporting procedures.
• Build effective relationships with colleagues and stakeholders across Council services.

Skills

Budget monitoring

Forecasting

Financial reporting

Analytical skills

Financial advice

Regulatory knowledge

Communication

Problem solving

Independence

Public sector finance

Education

AAT qualified or equivalent

Job description

Carrington Blake Recruitment is seeking a Principal Finance Officer to support the Council’s financial management services. You will work with finance colleagues, managers and budget holders to support budgeting, forecasting and reporting across the organisation.

Key responsibilities include monitoring budgets, analysing reports, advising on financial decisions, and assisting with year-end processes and statutory returns. DBS check required and role may operate across council locations.