Snr Financial Accountant

Senior Financial Accountant (Senior Financial)

Woking, England

Start: ASAP. Duration: 3 months with possibility of extension.

Location:

Hybrid (expected on site presence as required).

The Surrey Pension Fund is seeking an experienced Senior Financial Accountant to provide high calibre financial leadership during a key period. You will take operational ownership of fund accounting, reporting, controls, budgeting and senior stakeholder engagement, ensuring business as usual continuity and supporting the year end cycle. This is a hands on, delivery focused assignment ideal for a seasoned contractor with strong LGPS/public sector pensions finance experience.

You will lead and deliver:

• Financial Controls & Governance ensure robust reconciliations, controls, compliance and risk management.
• Budgeting & Forecasting manage the Surrey Pension Team budget and Fund forecasts.
• Cashflow & Banking Operations oversee all income, banking transactions, allocations and KPIs.
• Pension Fund Accounts & Annual Report oversee preparation, accuracy and audit readiness.
• Reporting & Insight draft and present high quality financial reports for Committee/Board and senior leadership.
• Team Leadership oversee a small team, providing direction, prioritisation and support.
• Deputise for Head of Pensions Resources when required.

The assignment requires a contractor who can hit the ground running with minimal onboarding:

• Fully qualified accountant: ACA / ACCA / CIPFA
• Strong LGPS or public sector finance experience
• High proficiency with financial systems, data analysis, modelling and reconciliation
• Proven ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information

• Track record of successfully leading finance teams or functions
• Ability to stabilise, organise and improve BAU activities
• Clear, confident communication with senior boards and committees
• Strong stakeholder management across finance, investments, auditors and external partners
• Highly organised, proactive, independent and delivery driven

• Immediately available or short notice
• Comfortable stepping into a senior role with autonomy
• Skilled at stabilising workloads, improving clarity, and driving outcomes quickly
• Confident presenting financial insights to non finance audiences