Principal Accountant Key Responsibilities Take the lead role in providing, developing, and maintaining financial management and accounting services across the organisation. Analyse, interpret, and communicate financial and operational information to support effective business decision-making. Conduct regular budget monitoring and report variances to senior management and relevant forums. Lead the preparation of the annual budget and medium-term financial planning, including presenting financial plans to senior stakeholders. Prepare and maintain long-term financial models and business plans, offering strategic advice on treasury matters and investment opportunities. Provide analysis and recommendations on pricing strategies, including the financial impact of proposed changes on long-term plans. Support the preparation of statutory financial statements and working papers for external audit, and present findings to governance bodies as required. Ensure timely and accurate completion of all statutory and regulatory financial returns in collaboration with relevant team members. Advise senior leadership on legislative changes and their financial implications. Attend and contribute to senior management and governance meetings as required. Ensure the finance team is adequately trained and equipped to meet service and organisational needs. Work to tight deadlines in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities. Act as deputy to the Finance Manager when required. Promote and uphold the organisation’s values and behaviours. Carry out any other duties reasonably within the scope of the role. Person Specification Holds a recognised CCAB (Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies) accountancy qualification. Strong knowledge of accounting standards and codes of practice. Proven experience in producing annual financial statements for a key service area or complex organisation. Demonstrated ability at preparing budgets, financial forecasts, and management accounts. Experience of advising senior leaders, stakeholders, and budget holders on financial matters. Proven people management skills, including the ability to lead, motivate, and develop team members. Understanding of administrative systems and processes required to meet regulatory or legal obligations. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage complex workloads, both individually and across teams. Confident in presenting financial information to a wide range of stakeholders, including those without a financial background. Comfortable working in environments that require sensitivity to organisational or political dynamics. Capable of handling complex tasks requiring advanced knowledge and expertise in a specialist financial discipline. 4712145