Full job descriptionDivisional Accountant – Public Health
Location: London
Job Type: interim contract
Day rate: £500
Sector: Public Sector / Local Government
About the role:
We are seeking an experienced Divisional Accountant to provide financial and management accounting support to a Public Health division within a London-based local authority.
Reporting to the Senior Finance Manager, you will work closely with budget holders and senior managers to support effective financial management, accurate forecasting and informed decision-making across a range of public health services.
This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional with strong analytical skills and public sector accounting experience to contribute to the effective delivery of essential local services.
Key responsibilities:
*Build and maintain strong working relationships with budget holders to understand financial developments, service priorities and budgetary pressures.
*Prepare accurate monthly financial forecasts and monitor expenditure against agreed budgets.
*Produce high-quality monthly financial reports, providing clear analysis and insight into the financial position of service areas.
*Provide financial advice and budgetary guidance to budget holders and senior management.
*Support the annual closure of accounts, including liaising with external auditors as required.
*Lead on financial aspects of key statistical submissions and grant returns.
*Update and maintain budgets, ensuring financial information is accurate and up to date.
*Provide financial input and advice on key projects and service developments.
*Support effective performance management, work planning and staff development where supervisory responsibilities apply.
*Contribute to service planning, performance monitoring and the delivery of efficient and effective financial services.
About you:
You will be a proactive and organised finance professional with the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and build effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
You should have:
*Experience in financial and management accounting, including budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting.
*The ability to analyse financial information, identify variances and provide practical advice to budget holders.
*Experience supporting year-end accounts and audit processes.
*Strong communication, organisational and stakeholder management skills.
*The ability to manage competing priorities and meet financial reporting deadlines.
*A commitment to accuracy, accountability and continuous service improvement.
Experience within local government, the public sector or a health-related service environment would be advantageous.