Job Advert We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds Finance and Property Services plays a key role within the council including the delivery of frontline services to the public in West Lothian. As part of Finance and Property Services, the council’s Financial Management Unit (FMU) is recognised as a high performing unit with a key role in ensuring the council makes the most effective use of resources to support delivery of services to customers. The current economic climate demonstrates the importance of sound financial planning and financial support within local government. An opportunity has arisen within FMU for the recruitment of an assistant accountant to undertake a role within the unit to provide support on financial planning, budget monitoring and financial reporting exercises and processes in line with the council’s financial strategies by working closely with senior managers across the council. This interesting and challenging assistant accountant role is responsible for a portfolio of services and will carry out their duties with a level of supervision using initiative and independence. The post requires professional accounting expertise and the ability to communicate effectively with finance colleagues and a wide range of staff throughout the council and in external organisations. The post requires knowledge of corporate and service issues, as well as consideration of wider environmental and political factors. As part of a highly motivated team you should have the ability to operate successfully in a dynamic working environment, with a proactive attitude and approach. The council presently has a supporting flexible working pilot to support the workforce to deliver critical services whilst maintaining a work-life balance and this currently allows a hybrid working arrangement for this post. You will have an HNC in Accounting or related subject, membership of AAT or part qualified accountancy qualification (CCAB or CIMA), with a knowledge of local government finance. While this is not a trainee role, consideration would also be given to support the successful candidate with further professional training.