Job Description:

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.

• 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.

• 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.