Belmont Recruitment are currently looking for a Principal Accountant to join Bradford Council on an initial 3-6 month temporary contract. This is a full-time role working 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Key Responsibilities: * Provide high-level, strategic financial advice to Directors and senior managers * Prepare and present detailed revenue and capital reports for the Executive Leadership Team and the Board * Lead the development of service budgets, forecasts, and financial planning processes * Oversee compliance with financial regulations, policies, and procedures * Represent the finance function on internal working groups and external forums * Coordinate and deliver training for non-finance managers to improve financial literacy * Line-manage and develop a team of finance professionals, promoting continuous improvement * Support transformation initiatives by identifying innovative, value-for-money financial solutions * Develop financial models and business cases to support service improvement and investment decisions * Maintain relationships with internal stakeholders, auditors, government bodies, and external partners About You: * CCAB qualified or part-qualified accountant * Minimum 3 years’ experience in financial services, preferably in the public sector * In-depth understanding of local government finance and accounting systems * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills * Confident communicator, able to work effectively with senior stakeholders * Proven experience in team leadership and performance management Location - Bradford (3 days on site, 2 days working from home). If this role would be of interest, please apply with an up to date CV as soon as possible