Interim Principal Accountant - Local Authority

Interim Principal Accountant - Housing & Chief Accountant's Team (Local Authority)

Location: London
Rate: £400-£450 per day (Inside IR35)
Duration: 6 months (potential for extension)

We are currently recruiting for an Interim Principal Accountant for the Housing & Chief Accountant's Team within a Local Authority. This is a pivotal role within the Council, offering exposure to various aspects of financial reporting, with a high degree of autonomy in managing key areas.

The Role:

The Principal Accountant will play a key role in supporting the Chief Accountant and Deputy Chief Accountant in maintaining the integrity of the Council's accounts and preparing the Statement of Accounts annually. This role is instrumental in the design and preparation of working papers and managing audit queries.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading on Collection Fund and Revenue Accounting for the Council.
• Completing notes to statutory accounts, group accounts, cash flow statements, and statistical returns.
• Ensuring financial reporting processes and policies are up to date, pragmatic, and aligned with best practices.
• Collaborating with the Chief Accountant and Deputy Chief Accountant to maintain and enhance the quality of financial reporting for the Council.
• Managing and supervising members of the Chief Accountant's Team, including supporting their professional development.
• Covering the 2024/25 year-end closure and external audit processes.

This role offers the opportunity to work across various aspects of the Council's financial operations, making it an excellent opportunity for professionals looking to further their career.

Essential skills:

• A CCAB qualification or currently studying towards it.
• A Technical Accounting expert with strong experience in financial accounting and a strong understanding of accounting principles.
• Successful implementation of process improvements
• Line management experience, with the ability to help junior staff develop their skills.
• A keen interest in contributing to the broader financial goals of the Council.