JOB AIM AND PURPOSE Due to the expansion of workload created by the imminent reorganisation of local government in Surrey, and the resultant contraction of timeframes in which to deliver significant ambitions under the Councils Corporate Business Plan, the main purpose of this role will be to provide resilience and capacity at a senior finance level. This may involve the delivery of standalone projects, including in-depth financial analysis and modelling, alongside direct support to the Corporate Head of Finance in the delivery of tasks such as: The annual closure of the accounts within prescribed timescales, including the preparation of the published Statement of Accounts and provide guidance, advice and other support to colleagues on any requirements or features within the process To act as one of the lead finance contacts for Runnymede in the Surrey Local Government Reorganisation exercise Implementation and delivery of its new Financial Management System to ensure a smooth transition to a fit for purpose and efficient system. 4. MAIN OBJECTIVES The provision of information and technical advice, including attendance at appropriate groups and meetings on behalf of Runnymede, in connection with the Surrey Local Government Reorganisation to ensure the correct data is supplied and the new authority is set up with the correct financial information, supporting the production of robust budgetary information for the new authority Ensure that all aspects of the work of the Council meet the relevant financial statutory requirements and professional codes of practice, particularly those in respect of financial accounting, budgeting, treasury management and taxation activities To ensure the Council carries out its financial affairs in a fair, proportionate, and professional manner, by providing clear financial and strategic advice to all stakeholders whilst adhering to statutory and professional regulations in the dealing and reporting of all financial transactions MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSILBITIES OF THE POST Undertake financial analysis of new projects and proposals and support financial modelling for scenario planning, reviewing adequacy of balances and reserves where appropriate Undertake / deliver core annual accounting processes involved in the production of: The Councils annual revenue budget, The Councils Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), and The final accounts and financial statements Support the production of, and test and review the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), HRA Business Plan and Capital Programme to ensure that the financial plans are consistent with the aims and objectives of the Council, including financial modelling of alternative scenarios based on risk analysis Support the development of strategies on treasury, capital controls and capital financing, by assessing the implications of new and existing legislation and codes of practice to ensure compliance and reporting on these. Assist in the Implementation of the Councils new financial and accounting system, assisting with the procedures, control framework, monitoring systems, and work instructions, to ensure that they operate effectively and efficiently and comply with best practice and appropriate codes of practice. Assist In the Councils continuous improvement and savings and efficiency programmes. Provide independent technical and accounting advice in relation to all new projects, policies and service developments, including capital planning and resourcing To provide specialist and technical financial advice, including risk analysis in relation to major development initiatives in which the Council has an interest Add value to the corporate decision-making process through providing professional financial advice and preparing and presenting financial evaluations to staff, Elected Members and committees to support the development of the strategic and operational aims of the council. Assist in reviewing and completing financial returns and claim forms to ensure that the financial position and plans of the Council are fairly and accurately reported. Suggest continuous improvements in the quality and efficiency of the delivery of the services carried out by the financial services section to achieve the most effective delivery of the Councils objectives Act as ambassador for the authority, representing the Council at meetings within or outside the authority, at Surrey wide and other strategic meetings, at committee or working parties, and on project teams or Boards. Attendance at evening Committee meetings as required Knowledge Technical accounting knowledge of IFRS and Local Government finance Understanding of Treasury Management, Prudential Code & the Local Government Capital Regime People and Change Management Skills and Experience Worked in a Local District or Borough Council at a deputy s151 officer level Significant experience in the production of the MTFS and budget development, including modelling demand pressures and other risk-based scenarios Strong track record in capital strategy and capital programme management and financial modelling for complex investment projects Recent experience of preparing the statutory Statement of Accounts Ensuring robust forecasting, technical accounting compliance, and timely delivery of statutory returns High level of verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present complex financial issues to a wide audience - both internal and external Hands-on experience across both the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA), ensuring compliant reporting and accurate reconciliations Strong organisational and prioritisation skills coupled with the ability to work accurately and methodically to deadlines Collaborative working across multiple service areas toward common corporate goals Ability to understand, analyse and interpret complex management and financial data and present it in a format suitable for reporting Able to write concise reports on complex issues that are understandable at all levels of the organisation. Effective negotiation and influencing skills Principal Accountant Principal Accountant Principal Accountant Principal Accountant Principal Accountant Principal Accountant Principal Accountant Principal Accountant