Principal Finance Officer

Halton Borough Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Finance Officer to lead key aspects of its corporate and technical finance functions. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in financial planning, reporting and governance, ensuring the effective management of public resources and supporting informed decision-making across the Council.

You will provide specialist financial advice to senior managers, elected Members and budget holders, while leading and developing a team to deliver high-quality financial services.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and monitor revenue budgets and the capital programme, ensuring accurate reporting and compliance with deadlines.

Oversee year-end accounts and statutory financial statements, ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards, regulations and audit requirements.

Lead the Council's treasury management function, including borrowing, investments and preparation of the annual Treasury Management Strategy.

Oversee capital financing, Collection Fund accounting, VAT returns and the maintenance of the Agresso general ledger.

Ensure effective budgetary controls and compliance with the Council's Financial Regulations and financial procedures.

Oversee grant claims, subsidy arrangements, external funding opportunities and statutory financial returns.

Provide financial advice, guidance and training to budget managers and senior stakeholders.

Lead, support and develop the finance team, promoting effective service delivery and continuous improvement.

Liaise with external auditors, Government Departments, other local authorities and relevant external organisations.

Requirements

CCAB or CIMA qualified.

At least three years' experience in local government finance.

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of local government accounting and financial management.

Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate, interpret and report on complex financial data.

Experience of preparing year-end financial statements and statutory accounts.

Highly organised, with the ability to plan, prioritise and manage own workload and that of subordinate staff.

Connect2Halton is a trading style of Halton & Kent Commercial Services LLP- A joint venture between Halton Borough Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Halton is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates