Principal Accountant

Our client is a large local government organisation and looking for an experienced Principal Accountant to join their team. This is initially a 3 month contract which may be extended for the right applicant You will To take responsibility and critically evaluate and challenge budget managers information provided to compile the Council''s annual budget and budget forecasting processes: • Provide professional financial support and guidance to operational managers with their budgets, forecasts and service planning. • Provide professional financial advice to support new projects and initiatives identifying financial impacts, offering options and solutions that will enable projects to meet the objectives of the Council. • Have lead responsibility for the production of the draft Quarterly Budget Monitoring Return for review by S151 officer. Financial Strategy To make a major contribution to the wider financial planning activities of the Council, by understanding the bigger picture and how Government Policy and plans impact the Council''s financial position and plans. • Contribute to the wider strategic plans of the Council''s finances working with the Finance Manager and s151 Officer developing the Medium-Term Financial Strategy. • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant financial legislation and national policies to ensure the Council is prepared for future impacts. Annual Accounts To take the lead on some complex areas of the Council''s annual financial accounts which could ..... full job details .....