Accountant; Business Partner

An exciting opportunity has become available to work within the Finance Team at Cheshire East Council.

There is a full‑time permanent position (37 hours per week) over a Monday to Friday working pattern. Part‑time applications will also be considered.

You will be responsible for:

• Managing and developing a team to deliver effective, high‑quality financial services.
• Preparing and overseeing revenue budgets and capital programmes in line with regulations and strategic priorities.
• Ensuring robust monitoring and reporting, supporting timely and effective corrective action.
• Delivering clear financial analysis and advice to support and influence decision‑making.
• Working collaboratively with services to drive performance, value for money and service improvement.

• Full membership of a professional accountancy body (CIPFA or CCAB equivalent) with extensive experience in accountancy, particularly in the public sector or large organisations.
• A proven track record of delivering reliable and accurate financial information.
• Experience in staff management and development.
• The ability to be flexible as you will work in a fast‑paced environment with changing deadlines and priorities.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing and prioritising competing workloads.
• Strong IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word, and experience with finance systems.

• Enhanced annual leave – Start with 34 days of annual leave (including bank holidays) from day one, increasing to 39 days after five years of service.
• Purchase of annual leave – You can purchase up to 10 extra days of annual leave each year (pro‑rata for part‑time staff).
• Flexible working pattern – Enjoy a 37‑hour standard full‑time work week with flexi‑time and hybrid/remote working arrangements where possible.
• Salary sacrifice green car scheme – Lease a brand‑new electric or hybrid car through our salary sacrifice scheme, with no credit checks or deposits.
• White goods salary sacrifice scheme – Purchase home and electronic items through our salary sacrifice scheme, spreading the cost of big‑ticket purchases directly from your salary.
• Enhanced public pension – Secure your future with our career average pension, where contributions are built at a rate of 1/49th of your yearly pensionable pay.
• Cycle to work scheme – Save up to 25‑39% on the retail price of bikes and safety equipment through Income Tax and National Insurance savings.
• Employee assistance programme – Access a free and confidential assistance service to help manage life’s challenges at work and in your personal life.
• Discounted gym membership – Corporate membership prices for Everybody Leisure, including:
  • Gym, Swim and Group Fitness at all 16 facilities
  • Off‑Peak Racket Sports
  • Athletics Tracks
  • Sauna/Steam/Spa

As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and want our workforce to reflect the diversity of our local communities so that we can all work for a brighter future – together.