Principal Accountant

The main purpose of this job roles is to:

Support the Head of Finance and Treasurer in advising the Authority, Principal Officers and Senior Officers on strategic and tactical financial issues; to manage the provision of a wide range of financial services to the Authority; to deputise for the Head of Finance and Treasurer, where necessary, on financial matters; and to act as a Senior Corporate Manager within the organisation.

Duties will cover/ include:

1. Managing and developing the Finance Team to provide high-quality financial services, including management accounting, statutory accounts production, budget preparation, treasury management, and ensuring timely and accurate financial returns.

2. advising the Head of Finance and Service Managers, on strategic financial issues, ensuring finance aligns with corporate plans and performance management.

3. managing the effectiveness of the Authority’s financial systems, ensuring strong control mechanisms and reliable management information for decision-making.

4. evaluating new initiatives to inform financial decisions, investigating inefficiencies and budget variances, and providing training to non-financial managers on financial systems and policies.

5. representing the Finance Department in multi-disciplinary projects and meetings, ensuring financial implications are considered.

6. Supporting the Head of Finance and Treasurer in managing relationships with auditors and other partners is also key.

7. you may deputize for the Head of Finance and Treasurer and act as a Senior Corporate Manager as needed.

Requirements of the role include:

1. Professional accounting qualification

2. Logical thinker who pays attention to detail

3. Proven track record in financial and staff management at a senior level

4. Ability to interpret and present financial data, statistics / and trends in a meaningful way

5. sound working knowledge of public sector accounting practice

6. Analytical, ability to research and appraise and evaluate/ financial and strategic issues and options

7. Demonstrable problem-solving skills

8. Self-motivated and able to influence and motivate others.

To apply please complete the job application form and provide evidence of competency against the above requirements of the role while considering the essential criteria listed on the attached job description.

CFRS offers an excellent benefits package to all our staff including a Local Government Pension Scheme, attractive holiday entitlement, training and development opportunities and access to free parking and on-site gym.

Further information, a full job description and application form can be found below, or alternatively contact the HR Recruitment Team at recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Job description

General information

Application guidance notes

Application form

Please ensure you read the application guidance notes before completing your application.

Please return completed application forms via email to recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Please quote job reference 65/25/PA on your application form.

Closing date for applications: Monday 14 April 2025 - Midday

Workplace Adjustments and Accommodations

It is important that you consider at an early stage of the process if you would like to request arrangements that will assist you in completing the selection process. For example, in relation to disability; a neurodiverse condition such as dyslexia; pregnancy; religion or belief; or injury etc. Any requests for workplace adjustments will be treated with the utmost confidence. For support or further information please email: recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Applications for job share working will be considered for this post.

Appointment to this post is subject to a satisfactory Standard Disclosure & Barring Service check.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) is committed to keeping vulnerable adults, children and young people safe from harm in all of the work that CFRS undertakes. CFRS recognises that it has a legal and moral obligation to safeguard these groups of people. Furthermore, it acknowledges that the protection of vulnerable adults, children and young people from harm is the responsibility of everybody within the organisation.