Senior Financial Accountant - Pension Fund

**Job Description**

We are seeking a Senior Financial Accountant for a local government client in Reigate, Surrey. The Pension Fund is seeking an experienced Senior Financial Accountant to provide high-calibre financial leadership during a key period. You will take operational ownership of fund accounting, reporting, controls, budgeting, and senior stakeholder engagement, ensure business-as-usual continuity and support the year-end cycle. This is a hands-on, delivery-focused assignment ideal for a seasoned contractor with strong LGPS/public sector pensions finance experience. Immediately available or short notice - Hybrid (expected on-site presence as required)

**Responsibilities**

• Financial Controls & Governance — ensure robust reconciliations, controls, compliance and risk management.
• Budgeting & Forecasting — manage the Pension Team budget and Fund forecasts.
• Cashflow & Banking Operations — oversee all income, banking transactions, allocations and KPIs.
• Pension Fund Accounts & Annual Report — oversee preparation, accuracy and audit readiness.
• Reporting & Insight — draft and present high-quality financial reports for the Committee/Board and senior leadership.
• Team Leadership — oversee a small team, providing direction, prioritisation and support.
• Deputise for the Head of Pensions – Resources when required.

**Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience Requirements**

• The assignment requires a contractor who can “hit the ground running” with minimal onboarding:
• Strong LGPS or public sector finance experience
• High proficiency with financial systems, data analysis, modelling and reconciliation
• Proven ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information
• Track record of successfully leading finance teams or functions 
• Ability to stabilise, organise and improve BAU activities 
• Clear, confident communication with senior boards and committees 
• Strong stakeholder management across finance, investments, auditors and external partners 
• Highly organised, proactive, independent and delivery-driven 
• Comfortable stepping into a senior role with autonomy 
• Skilled at stabilising workloads, improving clarity, and driving outcomes quickly 
• Confident in presenting financial insights to non-finance audiences

Qualification – Essential

• GCSES or equivalent to include Maths and English
• Fully qualified accountant: ACA / ACCA / CIPFA 
• Advanced user –Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, social media.

Essential Compliance Requirements

• 3 Years of References
• A pre-engagement screening is mandatory for this role. Please be prepared for this additional step in the application process.
• Willing to engage in the mandatory pre-screening application process.

Diamond Blaque Group, a leading public-sector provider, is acting as the employment agency for this vacancy. Our organisation is deeply committed to fostering an environment of equal opportunity and diversity in the workplace.