Principal Accountant

Job description

Fixed Term 2 Years
Full Time 37 hours per week

Devon County Council is seeking an ambitious and forward‑thinking Principal Accountant to play a pivotal role in one of the Council's highest‑profile and most important areas of expenditure. This is a newly created and unique opportunity to combine financial expertise with genuine social impact, helping to shape services that support children and young people across Devon to achieve the best possible start in life.

Working closely with the Head Accountant, you will provide strategic financial leadership across a complex and evolving service area, including Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). You will lead and inspire a talented team of finance professionals, driving high‑quality and robust financial management, reporting, forecasting and financial modelling to support key decision‑making.

You will be at the forefront of ensuring the Council meets Department for Education (DfE) requirements and helping to develop solutions to some of the most significant financial challenges facing local government today.

This role goes beyond technical accounting; you will work collaboratively with senior leaders across the County to influence decision‑making and drive the delivery of the best possible outcomes for the children and young people of Devon.

• Strong technical accounting and financial management expertise.
• Confidence to challenge, influence and support senior stakeholders.
• Ability to lead, motivate and develop a high‑performing team.
• Thrives in a fast‑paced environment where innovation and problem‑solving are valued.
• Passionate about using finance as a tool to improve outcomes.
• Fluency in spoken English and comfort in fulfilling all spoken aspects of the role.
• Right to work in the UK; no visa sponsorship.
• DBS disclosure required.

• DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• Flexible working arrangements are offered, including hybrid working, part‑time and condensed hours.