Principal Accountant

Hammond Clarke Group are partnering with a public sector organisation in Kent in their search for a new Principal Accountant. Are you an accountant that is capable of making a difference and giving back to the community by working in local government? What’s in it for you? * A starting salary of £44,551 per annum * Flexible, hybrid working arrangements that support and encourage a good work-life balance. * We’ll support and encourage your career by providing excellent opportunities for training and development. * Generous annual leave entitlement, starting at 23 days PLUS 3 additional days over the Christmas period whilst the Council offices are closed. There is also the option to buy additional annual leave. * We do not work on Bank Holidays. * A fantastic local government pension scheme. * Employee perks, including multiple retailer and lifestyle discounts to tackle the cost of living and help you enjoy your free time. About this Principal Accountant job opportunity: * As our Principal Accountant, you’ll take a lead role in the strategic risk management, tax management, audit liaison and budget monitoring for the general fund revenue account. * You will be looking after our statutory obligations in relation to VAT including advising on the correct VAT treatment of supplies and tax planning and overseeing fraud prevention. * You’ll contribute to the financial year end processes relating to the publishing of the Statement of Accounts and the Local Government Transparency Code. * As an expert in your field, you’ll provide financial advice to support the council’s objectives and tax affairs. * You’ll lead on budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes ensuring accuracy and alignment with corporate plan objectives within a challenging financial environment for local authorities. * As our new Principal Accountant, you will monitor and analyse financial performance, ensure robust controls are followed and collaborate with stakeholders. Working pattern: * Full-time, Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays * 37 hours per week * Flexible working hours and location * A full week off over Christmas! Plus 23 days of annual leave to use throughout the rest of the year. About you: Your skills: * Able to continually develop and improve your specialist knowledge, within the context of Local Government. * An effective team player. Your knowledge: * Understanding of Local Government Finance * Understanding and knowledge of accounting regulations * Knowledge of financial systems * Understanding and knowledge of financial legislation * Understanding of government guidance on specific service areas * Knowledge of Financial Regulations and Contract Standing Orders Your experience: * Experience of preparing and managing budgets * Experience in managing people. * Experience of writing and presenting finance reports Your qualifications: * CCAB qualified or substantial work-related experience. * 5 GCSE’s including Maths and English grades C/4 or above