Senior Accountant

Posted 23 July 2026
Salary 265
LocationBasildon SS14 United Kingdom
Job type Contract
Sector Financial / Banking / Accounting
Referencereq23467

Job description

6-month contract with a local authority

Summary

  • The Senior Accountant will play a pivotal role within a local authority on a 6-month contract. This position is crucial for budget preparation, financial reporting, capital and revenue accounting, and the production of statutory accounts. The role involves providing high-quality financial advice to budget holders and senior management, supporting informed decision-making, driving financial performance, and ensuring the efficient and effective management of the Council's financial resources.

Responsibilities

  • Support the annual budget-setting process by preparing budget estimates in line with corporate guidance and deadlines.
  • Monitor revenue and capital budgets, identifying variances, efficiencies, and financial pressures.
  • Provide budgetary control and financial performance reporting to senior management and service managers.
  • Work closely with budget holders to ensure effective financial planning and resource management.
  • Support the development and delivery of the Council's Medium-Term Financial Strategy.

Essential Experience Required

  • Minimum 3 years' experience working within a Local Authority finance environment.
  • Experience in financial accounting, budget monitoring, and financial reporting.
  • Experience supporting the preparation of annual accounts and statutory returns.

Essential Qualifications Required

  • AAT Qualified or higher professional accounting qualification.
  • Educated to A-Level standard or equivalent.
  • GCSE (or equivalent) Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics.

Additional Information

  • Working hours: 36.25 hours per week.
  • Office location: Basildon, Essex.
  • Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to be onsite a minimum of 4 days per week.
  • We work on a bi-weekly schedule.
The role closes on 29th August 2026, apply ASAP.