Chief Financial Accountant

About the role

This is a senior finance position within a progressive district council serving coastal, rural and market‑town communities in East Anglia. You will lead statutory accounts, external audit and treasury matters while supporting the council through Local Government Reorganisation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the annual Statement of Accounts process and year‑end closure programme.
• Manage the relationship with external auditors and act as the council's primary audit contact.
• Coordinate production of audit working papers and supporting documentation.
• Provide technical accounting advice to senior officers, elected members and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with legislation, accounting standards, CIPFA guidance and governance requirements.
• Support budget setting, Council Tax determination and government returns.
• Oversee insurance arrangements and related claims processes.
• Lead responses to financial consultations and monitor emerging legislative developments.
• Contribute to Local Government Reorganisation workstreams and technical accounting requirements.

Required profile

• CCAB qualification (CIPFA, ACA, ACCA or equivalent).
• Significant experience in a local government finance environment.
• Extensive knowledge of local authority finance and accounting requirements.
• Strong understanding of statutory accounts production and year‑end processes.
• Experience managing or coordinating external audit activities.
• Excellent knowledge of local government financial legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical, report‑writing and presentation abilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working model – 2 days on site.
• Competitive salary £50,000‑£60,000 per year.
• Opportunity to influence financial stewardship in a vibrant community.