Principal Accountant

Principal Accountant

Service Care Solutions are recruiting on behalf of a local authority in Warwickshire for a Principal Accountant to join the team on a temporary basis. The postholder will play a key role in the overall financial management; planning, directing and controlling the preparation and monitoring of statutory financial tasks, ensuring integrity and aiding decision making.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on the preparation, monitoring and reporting of revenue and capital budgets, ensuring compliance with legislation and Council requirements.
• Manage the annual Statement of Accounts process, including statutory reporting, accounting standards and liaison with External Audit.
• Provide high-level financial advice to senior officers and Members, supporting effective financial decision-making across the Council.
• Lead on a specialist area such as Treasury Management, Housing, financial systems, budget setting or strategic projects.

Candidate Criteria

• CCAB qualified accountant with 3+ years' post-qualification public sector experience, or significant relevant experience with Senior AAT or part-qualified CCAB status.
• Strong knowledge of local government finance, accounting standards and statutory Codes of Practice.
• Proven experience using financial management systems and complex spreadsheets, with a strong focus on accuracy and deadlines.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, with experience working with senior officers, Members, External Audit and other key stakeholders.