Interim Principal Financial Accountant

About the role

This is a six‑month interim assignment for a Principal Financial Accountant supporting a local authority in London. The role is hybrid, with two days a week required in the office.

Key responsibilities

• Assist and motivate a team delivering accounting, systems and capital finance activities.
• Maintain robust financial controls and oversee key financial processes.
• Provide clear, practical advice to senior finance leaders in a rapidly changing public‑sector environment.
• Support the timely preparation and production of the Council's Statement of Accounts.
• Build strong relationships with Council stakeholders, entities and the external auditor.
• Offer technical advice and support to both finance and non‑finance stakeholders across the Council.
• Maintain control of the Council's balance sheet to ensure ongoing financial resilience.

Required profile

• Qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, ACA or equivalent).
• Minimum 5 years' experience as a Financial Accountant in a local authority setting with deep knowledge of statutory accounting requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Immediately available for work.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working – two days a week in the London office.
• Daily rate of £500‑£550.