Principal Accountant

Principal Accountant

Office Based | Bideford
3-Month Contract
£22.27 per hour
Full Time, Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 5:00pm

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Principal Accountant to join the Finance team on a 3-month contract basis. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant with strong financial management experience to play a key role within a local authority environment.

Working closely with the Finance Manager and Section 151 Officer, you will provide a comprehensive accountancy and financial management service across the Council. The successful candidate will take responsibility for key financial functions including budget monitoring, annual accounts, financial strategy, statutory returns, and supporting both internal and external audit processes.

Please note: Applicants must have a strong accountancy background and hold a recognised CCAB qualification.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the production and monitoring of the Council’s annual revenue budget

• Provide financial guidance and support to operational managers

• Assist in developing the Medium-Term Financial Strategy

• Lead on complex areas of the annual Statement of Accounts

• Liaise with external auditors during statutory audits

• Complete and submit statutory financial returns and government claims

• Produce reports for committee meetings

• Line management and leadership responsibilities within the finance team

• Support bank-related duties including BACS payments and faster payments administration

About You

We are looking for someone who has:

• A CCAB qualification with at least 3 years’ financial management/accountancy experience

• Strong experience in budget monitoring and financial reporting

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

• The ability to interpret and communicate complex financial legislation

• Experience preparing year-end accounts and working with auditors

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage non-financial stakeholders

• Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel

• Local Government finance experience

• CIPFA qualification

• Knowledge of Local Government financial regulations and legislation

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £22.27 per hour

• Opportunity to work within a supportive and professional finance team

• Potential hybrid flexibility for the right candidate

• Valuable local government experience

Apply

Send your CV to applications@recruitmentunlimited.co.uk or call 01884 904 980.