Service Accountant

Interim Service Accountant

Based in London, hybrid working & Inside IR35

Length: 3-6 months

We’re looking for an experienced and forward-thinking finance professional looking to influence strategic decision‑making and support high‑value public services. We’re seeking a Service Accountant to provide high‑quality financial leadership across Children’s Social Care.

Key Responsibilities of the Service Accountant:

• Provide high‑quality financial advice and analysis to senior managers, elected Members and finance colleagues
• Support budget managers in setting and monitoring budgets, analysing trends and identifying financial risks
• Produce accurate monthly budget monitoring reports, ensuring variances and forecasts are fully understood and managed
• Lead on the monthly budget review process with the Finance Business Partner
• Deliver financial training and support to budget managers
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of statutory and Government financial returns
• Lead the year‑end closedown process for the Directorate and ensure high‑quality working papers
• Uphold financial best practice and ensure compliance with regulations and procedures
• Manage and develop the Senior Finance Officer and contribute to performance appraisal processes

Skills, experience and knowledge required of the Service Accountant:

• CCAB qualification required
• Strong understanding of financial management within local government, including relevant legislation and regulations
• Significant experience in budget setting & monitoring, capital and revenue budget monitoring, and producing high‑quality financial reports
• Proven ability to advise senior stakeholders and support strategic decision‑making
• Advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUP, pivot tables minimum)
• Ability to extract, interpret and analyse data from financial systems confidently
• Proven experience within a Local Authority

To apply for this role or to find out about other jobs, please contact the London Local Government Recruitment team on 020 7557 7667 or send your CV to localgov@venngroup.com

*Venn Group’s “Recommendation Scheme”: if you recommend a candidate who is subsequently placed by Venn Group (for a minimum of 2 weeks) you will be eligible for vouchers from a choice of high street organisations