Assistant Accountant

PURPOSE

The Assistant Accountant is part of a team responsible for supporting non-finance officers in monitoring and maintaining their budgets, as well as supporting technical, finance and accountancyrelated responsibilities. The Assistant Accountant will support the provision of accurate, timely and comprehensive financial information and lend support to analysis that informs decision-making and financial management activities. The post holder will support the management, development and updating of the medium-term financial strategy and annual budget to ensure that it supports the strategic aims of the Council.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide assistance in financial support and guidance to non-finance teams, contributing to budget monitoring and maintenance.
• Assist in the preparation of financial reports, forecasts, and budgets for the assigned teams, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations and policies.
• Support the analysis of financial data, identifying trends and variances, and assisting in providing insights to support decision-making processes.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure effective financial controls and processes are in place.
• Contribute to the preparation of year-end accounts, adhering to accounting standards and statutory requirements.
• Support the Senior Finance Business Partner or Finance Business Partner in providing financial advice and guidance to team members and management.
• Contribute to the enhancement of financial reporting capabilities and participate in system improvements.
• Keep up to date with changes in financial regulations, policies, and best practices, and assist in their implementation within the team.
• Support financial analysis activities and provide recommendations for improving financial performance and efficiency.
• Undertake any other duties as required by senior management.

Qualifications:

• A recognised technical accountancy qualification/part qualification (e.g. AAT) or equivalent vocational experience.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Good understanding of financial management principles and practices.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in financial management systems and software
• Intermediate Excel skills and familiarity with other MS Office applications
• Knowledge of financial regulations and accounting standards relevant to local government.
• Technical accounting knowledge.

Experience:

• Experience of working in a financial monitoring role.
• Experience of successfully working in a team environment.
• Experience of applying technical accounting knowledge as part of financial management practices.
• Experience of supporting financial year-end/closedown processes.

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