3 months contract with a Local Authority Job Summary: • An opportunity has arisen for an experienced and motivated Assistant Accountant to join a busy public sector finance team. • The successful candidate will support the Senior Accountant and Finance Manager in providing high-quality financial advice, preparing budget monitoring reports, grant claims, and year-end financial submissions, with a particular focus on managing and monitoring grant-funded programmes. Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample): • Assist in the provision of financial advice and reporting on grant schemes to senior management and project boards • Prepare and monitor budgets, estimates, grant claims and financial submissions • Produce regular budget monitoring reports and contribute to financial updates for Cabinet and Scrutiny Committees • Support in year-end accounting processes and ensure accurate reconciliation of financial accounts • Liaise with service managers and external stakeholders, including funding bodies and auditors • Supervise and delegate work to junior finance support staff • Attend meetings and represent the finance function where required • Ensure compliance with grant terms and conditions, and internal financial procedures • Assist in identifying and correcting misposted income and expenditure items Skills/Experience: • Strong working knowledge of core accounting principles, including budgeting, monitoring, and account closure processes • Experience working with financial systems such as OLAS, iTrent, or Proactis • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data and produce clear reports • Confident communicator with the ability to liaise effectively with staff at all levels • Proven ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment • Demonstrable experience in grant monitoring and financial reporting • Experience within a local authority or public sector finance setting is highly desirable • Competency in Microsoft Excel and Word Additional Information: • The closing date: 01/09/2025. • Relevant Level 4 financial qualification (e.g. AAT Level 4 or equivalent). • Full UK driving licence and ability to travel for meetings required.