Chief Accountant (Deputy s151)
Cheshire Constabulary is recruiting a Chief Accountant to support the overall financial management and governance of the Constabulary, acting as deputy to the Chief Finance Officer.
Responsibilities
- Lead on technical accounting and strategy functions within the Finance Team, including Treasury Management, taxation, and capital accounting.
- Represent the finance function at Management & Operational meetings, providing strategic financial and business planning advice.
- Interpret policy and present complex financial information to senior managers and senior police officers.
- Ensure statutory accounts and financial returns comply with national accounting standards, reflecting a true and fair view and meeting all appropriate timescales.
- Maintain adherence to professional bodies' requirement for CPD and keep abreast of changes in the financial environment.
- Develop and maintain efficient finance systems and processes in accordance with Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972.
- Manage a professional finance team with a strong customer focus, preferably in a public sector environment.
- Apply financial legislation and best practice in the public sector and make risk‑based decisions.
Qualifications & Experience
- CCAB qualification (CIPFA preferable) with a minimum of five post‑qualification years.
- Substantial public sector experience and experience working in a political environment.
- Proven track record of managing a professional finance team.
- Comprehensive understanding of financial legislation and public sector best practice.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
EEO Statement
Cheshire Constabulary is fully supportive of diversity, equality and inclusion and strives to employ a workforce which is representative of the community it serves.
Applications are welcomed from all underrepresented groups and support will be made available throughout the recruitment process for all applicants. Under‑represented groups include:
- People of ethnic minority
- Individuals who identify as having a visible or invisible disability
- Gender in relation to female representation for PC entry routes
- Gender in relation to male representation for Staff entry routes
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender + (LGBT+)
This role operates at level 3 of the Competency Values Framework.
Location: Force Headquarters, Winsford.
Contract: Permanent, Full Time.
Salary: £65,040 - £69,114 per annum.
Closing date: 28/06/2026.
