This is a remote position. Contract Length: 3 months Rate: £600 to £700 per day Location: Fully remote working available Deputy Chief Accountant (Senior) We are seeking an exceptional financial accountant with extensive experience in local government and in-depth technical accounting skills, including the closure of accounts and dealing with external audits. As the Deputy Chief Accountant, you will play a crucial role in leading and advising on various financial aspects, such as the preparation of the Council’s annual Financial Statements, financial accounting and controls, external audit of annual accounts, and providing insights to senior management and councillors on the impact of technical accounting. This role is integral to the Finance management team and will contribute to wider initiatives for continuous improvement and efficiency in service delivery and controls. Responsibilities: Lead the preparation of the Council’s annual Financial Statements in accordance with relevant accounting codes of practice and statutory requirements. Oversee all aspects of financial accounting and controls in accordance with best practice and technical accounting requirements Manage the external audit of the Council's annual accounts. Provide reporting and advice to senior management and councillors on the impact of technical accounting. Contribute to the Finance team’s wider initiatives for continuous improvement and efficiency in service delivery and controls Requirements Full CCAB or CIMA accountancy qualification Relevant experience in leading the annual closure of accounts process and production of the annual Statement of Accounts within local government Excellent knowledge of local authority accounting legislation, standards, and requirements Excellent written and verbal communication skills Experience at Chief accountant level within a local authority is preferred Experience in handling complex audit queries and a strong technical accounting background Additional Information: This is a senior role with a rate of £600 to £700 per day Fully remote working available This role is closing on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 18:00.