Financial Accountant

Financial Accountant – Public Sector

Newry-based | £45,718 per annum | Flexible Working | 12 + month contract

Reed Finance is delighted to be working with a reputable Public Sector body based in Newry in the recruitment of a talented and driven Financial Accountant to join its team on a temporary, 12 + month basis.

The successful Financial Accountant will ensure that robust systems and procedures are in place to maintain high data quality standards overseeing the preparation of Annual Financial Statements, month-end financial reporting, and other statutory returns, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of Annual Financial Statements and other statutory returns in line with public sector and regulatory requirements.
• Support the smooth and effective operation of the organization through the leadership and management of the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions.
• Provide expert advice on financial accounting standards, compliance, and technical matters.
• Oversee the preparation of accounts and liaise with external auditors.
• Ensure accurate financial records, including reconciliations, VAT returns, fixed asset registers, and capital claims.
• Monitor and forecast cash flow, supporting monthly and long-term financial planning.
• Maintain and improve internal controls, financial systems, and operational procedures.
• Lead and develop the financial services team, including performance management, training, and mentoring of trainee accountants.
• Deputise for senior finance leadership as required.

What you need to succeed:

1. Membership of one of the following professional bodies:

• Chartered Accountants Ireland;
• The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland;
• The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales;
• The Chartered Institute of Management Accountant;
• The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants;
• The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy.

2. A minimum of two years’ experience (within the last five years) in a financial accounting role covering at least 5 of the following areas:

• Preparation of annual financial statements including preparation of lead schedules and audit files.
• Reconciliation of nominal ledger accounts.
• Maintenance of a fixed asset register;
• Preparation of VAT returns for organisation subject to multiple VAT rates;
• Preparation of cash flow forecasts and monitoring of cash to ensure sufficient funds are available when required to meet organisations commitments.
• Experience using integrated finance systems;

3. Experience of liaising with auditors;

4. Experience using Microsoft packages;

5. Experience of managing a team;

For more information, including package details, please contact Mary at Reed Belfast, apply via this advert, or contact me confidentially on LinkedIn