Principal Finance Officer - Pensions - WMF2485e

Westmorland and Furness Council; Penrith; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Penrith is seeking a Principal Finance Officer to manage the Cumbria Local Government Pension Fund. This role involves maintaining financial records for a £3.5 billion portfolio, delivering employer accounting information, and supporting the Finance Manager. Ideal candidates will have relevant accounting qualifications or experience in local authorities, strong numeracy, and problem-solving skills. The Council offers a supportive working environment with opportunities for professional growth and a competitive benefits package.

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Enhanced annual leave allowance

Various perks and discounts schemes

Qualifications

• Experience in delivering accounting administration services.
• Ability to implement best practices and innovations.
• Sound comprehension skills.

Responsibilities

• Ensure timely and accurate provision of accounting information to employers.
• Maintain accounting records for the Fund’s investment portfolio.
• Oversee tax returns and cashflow management.

Skills

Strong numeracy

Problem-solving abilities

Clear communication

Effective organisation

Interpersonal skills

Education

Relevant accounting qualification or strong experience in local authority sector

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Principal Finance Officer to join the team responsible for administering the Cumbria Local Government Pension Fund, following the internal promotion of the current post-holder. Recently shortlisted for Small Pensions Team of the Year at the 2025 LGC Investment Awards, the Cumbria Pension Fund offers a dynamic and supportive working environment, with strong professional development and clear pathways for career progression.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the Finance Manager by ensuring the timely and accurate provision of employer accounting information to participating employers within the Cumbria LGPS. They will also help maintain precise accounting records for the Fund’s £3.5 billion investment portfolio, overseeing matters such as tax returns, cashflow management, and other essential accounting activities. In addition, the post holder will contribute to the general management of the Fund, fostering effective relationships with financial service providers and offering support to elected Members.

Who we are looking for…

We are seeking an individual with either a relevant accounting qualification or strong experience within the local authority sector. The ideal candidate will bring experience in delivering accounting administration services and implementing best practice and innovation within their work. Strong numeracy, problem‑solving abilities, and sound comprehension skills are essential, along with clear communication, effective organisation, and the ability to manage workloads and meet deadlines independently. The role also requires strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach.

What can we offer you!

Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site.

Would you like to find out more?

For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments:

• Post Specification
• Role Profile

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 21st December 2025

To apply please click theApply Now link below.