Principal Accountant – North Devon – Permanent
Salary: £39,000 – £43,000 + Benefits Package
Location: North Devon (Hybrid options available)
Hours: Full time (part-time considered)
Start: ASAP
Are you a qualified accountant looking to step into a strategic, technically engaging role where you can genuinely influence financial planning and organisational decision‑making? Whether you come from the public sector, private sector, or practice, this Principal Accountant position offers exceptional development and support for the right candidate.
We are partnering with a respected organisation seeking a professional, detail‑driven Principal Accountant. You will play a central role in budget setting, financial strategy, annual accounts, statutory returns, and team leadership. Full training can be provided on sector‑specific requirements, making this a fantastic opportunity for a qualified accountant seeking progression or a new environment. Additionally, benefiting from an excellent work/life balance with flexible working time, enhanced holiday allowance and closure over Christmas.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Leading the annual revenue budget process, challenging and supporting budget managers
* Providing professional financial advice on budgets, forecasts and new projects
* Producing the draft Quarterly Budget Monitoring Return
* Contributing to the Medium‑Term Financial Strategy and supporting long‑term planning
* Keeping up to date with legislation, policy changes and financial regulations
* Leading on complex elements of the annual accounts (revenue and capital)
* Ensuring compliance with accounting standards and supporting external audit activity
* Supporting service managers with financial guidance and planning
* Line managing and developing members of the Finance Team
* Managing bank processes such as faster payments, BACS files and administration
* Taking on additional responsibilities tailored to your experience (treasury, capital, VAT, payroll, CT/NNDR, insurance or risk)
What We’re Looking For
* CCAB‑qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW etc.)
* Strong technical ability with confidence interpreting complex financial information
* Ability to explain financial concepts to non‑financial colleagues
* Strong analytical, modelling and problem‑solving skills
* Solid Excel and Microsoft Office skills
* High levels of integrity, professionalism and accuracy
* Willingness to learn sector‑specific processes – full training provided
Desirable (but not essential):
* Experience with year‑end accounts, capital or asset accounting
* Experience writing or presenting committee or board reports
Why You’ll Love This Role
* Local Government Pension Scheme (defined benefit – employer contribution 16%, employee 5%)
* Flexitime with core hours
* 26 days annual leave (rising to 31 after 5 years’ service) plus bank holidays
* Christmas closedown – 3 additional days
* Option to buy up to 10 extra days holiday
* Free on‑site parking
* Cycle‑to‑work scheme
* Supportive, collaborative team
* Full training for sector‑specific areas
* A meaningful role with big‑picture influence
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