Principle Accountant

As the Principal Accountant, you'll play a pivotal role in providing financial leadership, supporting strategic planning, and ensuring high-quality financial services across the organisation. This is a senior position where you will manage a skilled team, deputise for the Head of Finance when needed, and provide expert advice to senior stakeholders on a wide range of financial and policy matters.

Client Details

This role is within a high-performing emergency services organisation committed to protecting communities, reducing risk, and saving lives. The service is nationally recognised for its innovation, community focus, and strong financial management. With a clear vision and values-driven leadership, the organisation provides a dynamic and supportive environment where professionals can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and make a lasting impact.

Description

• Lead and develop the Finance Team to deliver robust, customer-focused services.
• Produce statutory accounts, manage treasury activities, and support budget preparation.
• Provide strategic financial insight and support corporate decision-making.
• Maintain strong financial control systems and support performance management.
• Deliver training and guidance to non-finance managers on financial procedures.
• Represent the finance function in cross-departmental projects and external meetings.
• Act as a senior corporate leader and deputise for the Head of Finance as required.

Profile

What we're looking for:

• CCAB qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIPFA, ICAS or Chartered Accountants Ireland).
• Proven senior-level experience in financial and staff management.
• Strong knowledge of local government finance and accounting standards.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and IT skills (especially MS Excel).
• Resilient, politically aware, and confident in influencing others.

Desirable:

• Degree-level qualification.

Job Offer

• Competitive salary ranging from £50,000 to £57,000 per annum.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, fostering and parental leave.
• Volunteer leave.
• Free parking.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Access to Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Access to occupational health services.
• Healthy lifestyle support.
• Onsite gyms and discount at external gyms.
• Access to support and resources from the Mind Blue Light Programme.
• Blue light discount.
• Trade union support.
• Staff inclusion networks.

If you're ready to bring your expertise in accounting and finance to the public sector, we encourage you to apply and make a difference in this Principal Accountant role.