PERSON SPECIFICATION July 2023

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Job Title: Principal Accountant (Corporate) Grade: STR7 Responsible to: Accountancy Manager Service Area: Finance Post Number: FIN1030

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

QUALIFICATIONS

• CCAB Qualified (or equivalent)

EXPERIENCE

• Experience of working in local government, or in a similar complex public or private sector organisation, at a senior level;

• Substantial experience of key financial accounting and financial management principles

• Experience of closing complicated accounts and working through an audit process

• Experience providing advice to managers

• Experience of leading and managing staff, performance management

• Understanding of procurement and compliance with the Council’s Financial Regulations and Contract Procedural rules;

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• A thorough understanding of the principles of accounting, budgeting, monitoring and financial management;

• Ability to communicate complex technical issues in a straightforward and inclusive manner

• Effective communication skills at a senior level with partners, stakeholders, businesses and the general public;

• Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial system skills (Unit 4 ERP/Agresso or equivalent)

• Team leadership and motivational skills PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Good influencing and communication skills

• Able to manage complex individual and team workloads effectively OTHER ▪ Committed to working for an employer that values diversity and equality of opportunity

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

QUALIFICATIONS

• Educated to degree level EXPERIENCE

• Experience of business planning;

• Experience of working in a political environment and advising elected Members;

• An understanding of local authority/housing accounting, including key documents such as the SORP and SeRCOP, and recent or impending changes

• Experience of project management and a good understanding of project management principles

PERSON SPECIFICATION July 2023

2

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge of HRA Self Financing and the issues councils are faced with.

SDC VALUES & BEHAVIOURS

1. Valuing our People

We expect you to genuinely value people by treating them with respect, fairness, and

dignity. Show us that you are committed to fostering an inclusive work environment

where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique skills and

perspectives.

2. Making a Difference

We are seeking individuals who are passionate about public service and have a

strong sense of social responsibility. Show us your commitment to positively

impacting the lives of our residents and the wider community through your work. We

want candidates who are dedicated to making a positive difference and contributing

to the betterment of our society.

3. Aiming High

We want you to demonstrate a proactive and forward-thinking mindset. Show us that

you strive for excellence and continuously seek opportunities for growth and

improvement. We value candidates who are willing to challenge the status quo, set

ambitious goals, and pursue innovative solutions to achieve outstanding results.

4. Being one Council

Collaboration, teamwork, and effective communication are essential to our success.

Demonstrate your understanding of the value of working together towards shared

goals. Show us that you can build positive relationships, work well in a team, and

contribute to a harmonious and cohesive work environment.