Role Purpose
* To support the Head of Finance, Finance Managers, and departmental teams in providing high-quality, flexible, and professional financial support to service departments, responding to priority changes and adapting to current requirements.
* To act as a Finance Business Partner for the relevant service area and develop an in-depth understanding of the service overall.
* Providing robust financial advice to senior stakeholders, presenting information to Departmental Management teams, project delivery boards, and other meetings related to the specific area of work.
* To attend and represent the Head of Finance and Finance Managers, in their absence, at service-related meetings.
Responsibilities
* Support and deputise for the Head of Finance and Finance Manager to deliver financial support, advice, and guidance to the relevant service area.
* Support the Director of the designated service area.
* Lead on specific finance tasks supporting the annual financial cycle, including budgeting, forecasting, and account closing.
* Undertake sensitivity analysis, review and challenge budget decisions, develop business cases, and lead on calculations for funding and grants.
* Proactively seek opportunities to improve financial support and identify efficiencies within the service support.
* Perform other duties as reasonably requested by management.
* Ensure all activities comply with the Council's Policies and Procedures.
Requirements
* A CCAB or CIMA accountancy qualification, or part-qualified with active study, or significant accountancy experience in a similar role.
* Good knowledge of local government finance, budgeting, and accounting, with experience in providing high-level advice on complex financial issues.
* Excellent numerical and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and develop financial management systems.
* Strong communication skills to present complex issues to diverse audiences, including councillors and senior officers.
* Advanced IT skills, especially in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, with experience in designing complex spreadsheets and working with integrated financial systems.
* Experience in providing financial advice to senior officers, members, and external stakeholders.
* Experience in analyzing and challenging budget decisions to achieve value for money.
* Experience in financial modeling and assessing the viability of new initiatives or service models.
* Previous experience in a Local Authority or Housing Association is required.
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