Deputy Chief Accountant

Job Description

Position: Deputy Chief AccountantLocation: Reading (Hybrid)Salary: £60,004 - £64,333Company Overview:Reading Borough Council is seeking an ambitious and dedicated Deputy Chief Accountant to join its Finance Leadership Team. Our council is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents through various initiatives, including new leisure facilities,carbon footprint reduction, and improved customer service. With exciting projects such as the transformation of the Hexagon Theatre and the development of a new Central Library, Reading is a vibrant and forward-thinking place to work.About the Role:This role is ideal for a qualified accountant with significant local government finance experience. You will be responsible for managing the production of the annual Statement of Accounts and ensuring the Council maintains a robust general ledger controlenvironment. Additionally, you will deputise for the Chief Accountant across various finance transformational activities, providing ample opportunities for rewarding work and career growth.Key Responsibilities:* Manage the production of the annual Statement of Accounts.* Maintain relationships with External Audit and key stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate information and explanations.* Ensure the integrity of the chart of accounts, balances, transactions, and controls to facilitate statutory and management reporting.* Provide technical accounting advice to Council staff, ensuring compliance with best practices and relevant accounting standards.* Analyse and advise on potential impacts of changes in accounting codes of practice.About You:* Fully qualified accountant with significant experience in local government finance at a senior level - Essential.* Proven experience working with key stakeholders such as external auditors, actuaries, asset valuers, Directors/Chief Officers - Essential.* Effective collaboration skills and the ability to provide high-quality financial information - Essential.Their Offer:Join a supportive environment that encourages innovation and ambition. Reading Borough Council values diversity and inclusion, and we are committed to the recruitment and continued employment of people with disabilities.We offer a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, including:* Generous holiday entitlement - 25 days holiday each year plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years service, with the option to buy additional leave.* A wide range of flexible working opportunities.* Modern working environment at the Civic Offices in the heart of Reading.* Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).* Life Assurance - three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS).* On-site day nursery (Kennet Day Nursery) rated outstanding by Ofsted.* Season Ticket Loan to assist with commuting costs.* Lease car salary sacrifice scheme allowing you to lease a brand new, greener car for three years. The monthly fee includes insurance, servicing, and road tax.This is an excellent opportunity to make your mark in an ambitious and dynamic finance team within a local authority committed to making a difference in the community.