Principal Accountant

Description

Principal Accountant

ASA are working with a public sector client who are seeking a highly skilled Principal Accountant to manage a financial support team and provide expert financial advice. You will play a key role in budget planning, financial performance reporting, and governance while supporting service managers in effective financial decision-making. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the financial health and strategic direction of the Council.

Key Responsibilities:
· Planning – Support the Finance Manager in aligning service plans with Council strategy, providing leadership, ensuring service efficiency, and collaborating with Council services on service agreements.

· Service Delivery – Ensure high-quality services by contributing to corporate initiatives, assisting in planning, promoting equality, implementing IT solutions, maintaining communication, and meeting objectives. Key responsibilities include budget monitoring, financial governance, tax management, financial accounting, treasury management, and overseeing charitable funds.

· Budget Management – Assist the Finance Manager with budget compliance, reporting, financial control, and supporting departments with financial decision-making.

· Staff Management – Manage staff performance, ensure proper resourcing, skill development, and lead team development to meet goals.

· Quality Assurance / Performance Management – Develop systems to monitor and improve performance, ensuring standards are met and applying quality criteria for Best Value and Continuous Improvement.

Essential Skills & Experience:
· CCAB qualified accountant with ongoing professional development.
· Strong experience in budget planning, monitoring, and financial performance reporting.
· Experience managing staff and working in a senior finance role.
· Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable Skills:
· Experience in Local Government finance.
· Knowledge of Oracle Financials, Treasury Management, and VAT regulations.

Key Competencies:
· Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to prioritise, meet deadlines, and work independently.
· Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.
· A team player with a proactive and motivated approach.

Additional information:
· Initial 13-month contract (Inside IR35).
· Flexible working arrangements available. Main office location – Argyll and Bute however role can be fully remote with occasional travel to the area.

If you are looking for your next contract opportunity and have the qualifications and experience to excel in this role, we want to hear from you!

Please submit your CV and apply today and we will be in touch with further information!

ASA Recruitment is one of Scotland’s largest independent multi-sector recruitment agencies. We specialise in providing effective tailored solutions for permanent, contract and temporary employment requirements for our Clients and Candidates. We are members of the REC and are ISO certified.

YOU SEEK WE FIND