Full job description

Technical Accountant - Closedown Review£500 per day | Interim Contract until 31 December 2026 | Mainly Remote
We are recruiting for an experienced Technical Accountant to support a Local Authority client with a key Closedown Review workstream within its Finance Transformation Programme. This role will also provide support to the Corporate Finance Team, including Chief Accountant-related responsibilities as required.
Key Responsibilities*Lead a fundamental review of the 2025/26 closedown process and Statement of Accounts.
*Assess revenue and capital closedown procedures, working papers, reconciliations and audit trails.
*Review team capacity, roles and responsibilities, governance and management oversight.
*Evaluate compliance with the CIPFA Code of Practice and Disclosure Checklist.
*Identify opportunities to streamline accounts production, strengthen balance sheet assurance and improve external audit readiness.
*Review findings from internal audit, external audit and previous independent reviews.
*Assess capital accounting, pensions, grants accounting, fixed asset processes and finance system controls.
Essential Requirements*Fully Qualified CCAB Accountant (CIPFA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
*Minimum 5 years’ post-qualified experience (PQE).
*Significant local government finance experience.
*Proven experience managing or supporting the closure of Statement of Accounts.
*Strong technical accounting knowledge and understanding of CIPFA requirements.
*Experience working with external auditors and driving process improvements.
Contract Details*£500 per day (flexiable)
*Interim contract until 31 December 2026
*Mainly remote
*Approximately one office visit per month
This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned local government finance professional to play a key role in improving closedown processes and supporting a wider finance transformation programme.