Principal Finance Officer – AR

Principal Finance Officer

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Principal Finance Officer to support the Council’s financial management services. The successful candidate will work closely with finance colleagues, service managers and budget holders to support effective financial planning, budget monitoring, forecasting and reporting across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the preparation and monitoring of annual revenue and capital budgets, financial forecasts and medium-term financial plans.
• Prepare and analyse financial reports, identifying spending trends, budget variances, risks and opportunities.
• Provide financial advice and guidance to service managers and budget holders to support informed decision-making.
• Investigate financial discrepancies, overspending and reconciliation issues, recommending appropriate corrective action.
• Support year-end financial processes, including the preparation of the Council’s annual accounts and supporting documentation.
• Assist with statutory financial returns and submissions to government departments and external bodies.
• Maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with financial procedures, regulations and reporting requirements.
• Work with internal and external auditors, responding to queries and providing supporting financial information.
• Contribute to improving financial systems, processes, controls and reporting procedures.
• Build effective working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders across Council services.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience in financial management, budget monitoring, forecasting and financial reporting.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret financial information and identify variances.
• Experience providing financial advice and support to managers or budget holders.
• Good understanding of financial controls, accounting procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing deadlines and maintain accurate financial records.
• Understanding of local government finance and public-sector financial procedures.

Qualifications

AAT qualified or equivalent relevant work experience and training.

Additional Information

• Reporting to: Finance Business Partner / Senior Finance Business Partner / Head of Financial Strategy.
• DBS: Standard DBS check required.
• The role may involve working from different Council locations and attending occasional meetings outside normal working hours.

The successful candidate will be expected to exercise professional judgement, support effective financial decision-making and help ensure the responsible management of public funds.