Lead Accountant

Job Details

• Suffolk County Council
• Address:
  Endeavour House, Ipswich IP1 2BX
  - Hybrid working
• Salary: £60,135 per annum (pro rata for part time)
• Hours:
  
  37 hours per week - Flexible working options available
• Contract:
  
  Permanent

As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, at Suffolk County Council we’re driven to make a positive difference to the environment, the communities we serve and the careers of our people. That’s why, when you join us as a Lead Accountant in our Finance team, you’ll be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.

Reimagine the possibilities.

Are you ready to take the lead in shaping the future of financial management? This is your chance to play a pivotal role in driving innovation and excellence across our organisation. We’re looking for a driven, forward-thinking professional with exceptional interpersonal skills to champion improvements in how we manage our resources and deliver real impact for the communities we serve. In this role, you’ll oversee the development and maintenance of our financial systems, ensuring they are efficient and effective, while also designing and delivering high-quality training that empowers staff across the Council.

You’ll lead initiatives to embed best practice, using the CIPFA Financial Management Code as a benchmark, and work closely with colleagues to strengthen financial governance and compliance. As a key member of the Finance team, you’ll manage and mentor staff, collaborate with stakeholders, and represent senior leadership when required. We have a period of significant change coming up so you’ll support the implementation for Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation.

This is more than a job, it’s an opportunity to influence how we work, support major organisational changes, and help shape a culture of outstanding financial practice.

• CCAB qualified (e.g. CIPFA, ACCA or CIMA)
• Broad base of financial experience and knowledge, preferably gained from a public sector background
• Experience leading a team of 2 to achieve goals and objectives successfully, working collaboratively and constructively with staff across different grades and services
• Competently represent the Chief Financial Officer as required
• Trustworthy, diligent and motivated, able to work without close supervision
• Adaptability to meet changing requirements and needs
• Good communication skills and the ability to explain technical/financial information in simple terms

You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (Word). If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

You’ll be part of the Corporate Finance team, working alongside three other Lead Accountants to deliver a wide range of effective financial management and reporting responsibilities. You will report to the Head of Corporate Finance (Deputy Section 151 Officer). The wider team is eager to develop its use of technology and best practice, but needs someone who will lead them in that journey;

that will be your role. Your role means you will have the opportunity to shape how we work moving forward, both in Finance and more widely. We practice hybrid working, however you would be expected to be in the office at least two days per week.

We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.

Please contact Andrew Filby (Head of Corporate Finance and Deputy Chief Financial Officer) for a casual conversation. You can reach him by calling or emailing

Step 1 – Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP).

Step 2 – Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online…