Accounting Officer



Location: North



Department: Finance Department



Reports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) / Finance Director



Job Summary:

The Accounting Officer will be responsible for managing the financial records of the local authority, ensuring accuracy, compliance with regulations, and timely reporting. The role involves overseeing day-to-day accounting operations, preparing financial statements, managing budgets, and providing financial insights to support decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Management and Reporting:

   • Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records.
   • Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
   • Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations and standards.
   • Coordinate and manage the year-end audit process.

2. Budgeting and Forecasting:

   • Assist in the preparation of the annual budget.
   • Monitor budget performance and provide variance analysis.
   • Prepare financial forecasts and projections.

3. Accounts Payable and Receivable:

   • Oversee the processing of invoices and payments.
   • Manage the billing and collection of revenues.
   • Reconcile accounts and resolve discrepancies.

4. Cash Management:

   • Monitor and manage cash flow.
   • Prepare cash flow forecasts.
   • Manage investments and banking relationships.

5. Financial Analysis:

   • Conduct financial analysis to support strategic planning.
   • Provide financial insights and recommendations to senior management.
   • Develop and maintain financial models.

6. Compliance and Internal Controls:

   • Ensure compliance with local government financial regulations.
   • Develop and implement internal control procedures.
   • Conduct internal audits and reviews to ensure financial integrity.

7. Team Leadership:

   • Supervise and mentor junior accounting staff.
   • Provide training and development opportunities.
   • Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.

8. Stakeholder Engagement:

   • Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including auditors, banks, and regulatory bodies.
   • Respond to financial inquiries from council members, department heads, and the public.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACCA, CPA, CIMA) is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in accounting or financial management, preferably within the public sector.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial regulations.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent analytic and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with integrity.

Vivid Resourcing are committed to equality of opportunity for all applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships or any other characteristic protected by law.