Accountant
Location: Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters
Salary: £40,476 – £44,771 (Dependent on Experience)
Contract Type: Full Time | Permanent
Closing Date: 8th June 2025
Introduction
Join one of the UK’s leading fire and rescue services and play a key role in managing public funds that help protect and serve the people of Cheshire. At Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, we are a progressive, forward-thinking organisation where your finance career can thrive while making a genuine difference to our communities.
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly capable and motivated Accountant to support the delivery of financial services across the organisation. This varied and rewarding role offers exposure to all aspects of financial management, statutory accounting, and budget planning.
Why You Should Join Us
1. Diverse Financial Experience: From budget preparation and final accounts to treasury management and audit liaison, this role provides a broad platform for financial growth and development.
2. Career Development in a Progressive Setting: Gain experience across key functions, be involved in high-impact projects, and benefit from a supportive environment that promotes continuous professional development.
3. Purposeful Work: Your financial expertise will directly support frontline emergency services, enabling us to invest effectively in people, equipment, and community safety initiatives.
4. Supportive, Inclusive Culture: We champion equality, diversity, and inclusion, and promote flexible working, wellbeing, and a strong sense of belonging across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the preparation and monitoring of budgets in partnership with operational managers.
* Contribute to the production of statutory accounts and liaise with auditors.
* Provide accurate and timely financial information to support decision-making.
* Supervise and produce statutory and non-statutory financial returns, including VAT and FOI responses.
* Support treasury management activities including cash flow forecasting.
* Maintain the Authority’s asset register and assist in managing financial systems and processes.
* Represent the Finance team in cross-departmental projects and meetings.
* Provide advice, training, and support to budget holders and internal stakeholders.
* Lead and support team members to ensure consistent delivery of financial services.
Essential Skills and Experience
* Professionally qualified accountant (CCAB bodies – e.g., CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW).
* Experience working with operational managers to prepare and manage budgets.
* Recent experience in the production of final accounts (local authority experience desirable).
* Experience of working with large financial ledger systems.
* Proven ability to meet tight deadlines.
* Experience in cash flow forecasting and treasury processes.
* Management experience in a financial setting.
* Strong understanding of tax-related matters.
* Proficiency with complex spreadsheets and Microsoft Office tools.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues.
Important Note
Any successful applicant will be subject to a standard DBS check, which is a key requirement for all roles within Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, as we are committed to safeguarding vulnerable individuals in the communities we serve.
Join Us
If you’re looking for a varied finance role where you can broaden your experience, grow professionally, and make a meaningful contribution to the community—this is the opportunity for you.
Closing Date: 8th June 2025
Workplace Adjustments and Accommodations
If you require arrangements to assist you in completing the selection process, please contact us early. All requests will be treated confidentially. For support or further information, email: recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is committed to safeguarding vulnerable adults, children, and young people in all its work. We recognize our legal and moral obligations to protect these groups and acknowledge that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.
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