Assistant Accountant| Newquay | Contract (18m)|
Are you an experienced finance professional looking for the next step in your public sector career? Butler Rose is delighted to be partnering with a well-established public sector organisation in Newquay to recruit an Assistant Accountant. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives on responsibility, teamwork, and making a meaningful impact within a community-focused organisation.
About the RoleWorking closely with the Chief Finance Officer, you’ll play a pivotal part in the effective financial management, governance, and operational delivery of the Council’s finance function. You will support statutory compliance and lead day-to-day accounting activity.
This position offers significant professional breadth-from procurement oversight and payroll administration through to committee reporting, audit preparation, and deputising for the CFO when required.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management & Compliance
*Oversee day-to-day financial operations including budget monitoring, reconciliations, banking, cashflow and expenditure management.
*Support annual budget setting, precept documentation and statutory returns (AGAR, VAT, pensions, HMRC).
*Deliver month-end and year-end reporting, ensuring all financial governance aligns with legislation and internal regulations.
Payroll & Staff Payments
*Oversee the monthly payroll cycle using Moneysoft (or similar), ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely submissions.
*Liaise with HR regarding salary changes, new starters, leavers and statutory pay requirements.
Procurement & Contracts
*Lead procurement activity, ensuring adherence to procurement law, Standing Orders and Financial Regulations.
*Manage tendering, due diligence, contract set-up and audit-ready record keeping.
Grants & Funding
*Oversee the organisation’s grants programme and support external grant applications and reporting.
Corporate Reporting & Governance
*Prepare and present financial reports for committees and contribute to wider governance documentation.
*Deputise for the CFO when required, supporting urgent decision-making.
Risk, Audit & Compliance
*Support internal and external audits, implement improvements and maintain risk-management practices.
About YouEssential:
*AAT Level 3 (or above) or equivalent experience.
*Knowledge of public sector finance, or the ability and willingness to adapt quickly.
*Strong IT skills, particularly Excel and finance systems.
*Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain finance to non-specialists.
*Experience managing or mentoring colleagues.
Desirable:
*CCAB qualification (CIPFA / ACCA / CIMA) or working towards it.
*Experience in grant funding or project finance.
*Public sector experience.
Why Apply?This role offers meaningful responsibility, excellent exposure to senior leadership, and the chance to directly influence financial governance within a respected public sector organisation. It’s ideal for someone seeking progression, variety and the opportunity to deputise at a senior level.
How to ApplyPlease apply with an up to date copy of your CV.
For further information please contact:

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Butler Rose is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.
Butler Rose Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.