Group Accountant

• Location: Bolton. Hybrid
• Job Type: Full-time
• Hourly rate: £23.17 per hour PAYE
• Length of role: Initial 3 months

We are seeking an experienced Group Accountant to join our strategic finance team at Bolton Council. This role is crucial in supporting the Council's Corporate and Place Directorates by providing strategic financial support, challenge, and insight. This position offers the opportunity to tackle complex and diverse challenges, optimising budgets and resources for the benefit of our residents.

• Lead the accounting team within the joint finance unit to ensure budget monitoring, budget estimates, returns, and final accounts processes are completed accurately and comply with relevant legislation, accounting standards, and codes of practice.
• Manage liaison with internal and external auditors, resolve financial irregularities, and liaise with government departments, other councils, and external bodies as required.
• Develop cost-saving projects and reports, identify opportunities for improved cost control, and proactively develop financial solutions.
• Lead on the appraisal, due diligence, and accounting arrangements for new projects, services, and tenders to ensure proper accounting and budgeting arrangements are in place.
• Develop, implement, and adapt processes and procedures using IT for the appraisal of potential projects to identify financial risks and ongoing financial consequences.
• Act as the finance lead on multi-discipline strategic project groups, assisting operational teams in bids and tenders, producing models, and identifying financial risks.
• Manage and develop staff, leading and coaching the client-facing accountancy services team to ensure optimal customer experience.
• Provide financial advice, guidance, support, and training to the team and wider organisation, and represent the Authority in financial matters at meetings with suppliers, customers, and external agencies.
• Ensure adherence to the Local Authority’s Section 151 responsibilities and deputise for senior finance roles as required.
• Lead in the financial development and delivery of service business and action plans.

• Qualified Accountant (CCAB Body by Examination) with at least two years of post-qualification experience.
• High level of financial management and accountancy skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing, with the ability to influence and persuade senior officers.
• High level of technical ability with a thorough understanding of accounting standards and codes of practice.
• Strong information technology skills, particularly in using IT to enhance financial processes.
• Ability to plan and meet agreed targets and deadlines.
• Strong team coordination skills to maximise team potential and provide high-quality services.
• Ability to provide advice and guidance to senior officers, budget managers, and external partners.