Principal Accountant

Principal Accountant 

We are looking for a Principal Accountant (Balance Sheet and Payroll) to join the team, in this unique and vibrant workplace, nestled in the heart of London!

Salary: £66,555 - £76,077 per annum

Location: London/Hybrid (3 days in the office)

Contract Type: Permanent

Lead Balance Sheet Management & Drive Financial Integrity

This central London Borough is evolving. With the implementation of Oracle Fusion in April, we are embedding a modern, insight-driven approach to financial management. As Principal Accountant, you will play a critical role in managing the Council’s Balance Sheet, strengthening financial controls and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. This is a key role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting at one of London’s most ambitious local authorities.

You will lead a Financial Accountant and work closely with finance colleagues and auditors to ensure effective reconciliation, risk management, and process improvement in a period of transformation.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Strengthening Financial Control & Governance – Ensure robust financial controls are in place across the Balance Sheet, identifying compliance weaknesses and implementing mitigations.

Leading Payroll Costing & Reconciliations – Validate and release payroll costing files to the General Ledger, ensuring accuracy and timely reconciliation of payroll-related accounts.

Closing the Council’s Annual Accounts – Lead on producing the Balance Sheet and associated notes, ensuring timely submission of statutory financial statements and successful audit outcomes.

Maximising Oracle Fusion’s Capabilities – Work with finance colleagues to embed automation, enhance reporting, and improve financial controls using Oracle Fusion.

Managing Financial Reporting & Compliance – Ensure accurate financial returns, align with CIPFA Codes of Practice, and oversee adherence to financial regulations.

Providing Technical Accounting Advice & Training – Support senior officers and finance teams with specialist guidance on financial reporting, reconciliations, and Balance Sheet management.

Leading on Audit & External Reporting – Work with auditors to provide evidence, manage queries, and ensure full transparency in financial reporting.

What We’re Looking For:

Essential - Qualified Accountant (CCAB/CIMA) – Preferably CIPFA, with a strong foundation in technical accounting and financial reporting.

Balance Sheet & Payroll Expertise – Experience in managing financial and payroll reconciliations, and General Ledger controls.

Strong Technical & Analytical Skills – Ability to interpret financial data, drive improvements, and implement effective financial controls.

Experience of Public Sector Finance – Knowledge of local government accounting, financial frameworks, and statutory reporting.

Confidence with Financial Systems & Automation – Experience using ERP systems (preferably Oracle) and embedding automation in financial processes.

Excellent Communication & Leadership – Ability to train, advise, and challenge senior officers while leading a high-performing finance team.

Why Join Us?

High-Impact Role – Play a critical part in strengthening financial governance and leading Balance Sheet transformation.

Exciting System Change – Help embed Oracle Fusion and maximise its financial management capabilities.

Opportunities for Career Growth – Be part of a finance team that values professional development and continuous improvement.

Generous Benefits Package including – 31 days annual leave (increasing with long service), Local Government Pension Scheme, family-friendly and flexible working, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, volunteering leave and season ticket loans. Further benefits after 12-months service include travel allowance (London Underground zones 1-2) and professional fees paid.

Ready to Make an Impact? Apply Now!  Submit your CV and a supporting statement (2-4 sides A4 maximum) setting out how you meet the role requirements.

Deadline: Sunday 9th March 2025

Diversity & Inclusion: This London Borough is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Other roles you may have experience of could include Financial Accountant, Finance Manager, Business Accountant, Finance and Operations Accountant, Payroll, Payroll Accountant, Balance Sheet, Senior Finance Officer, Senior Financial Accountant, Financial Controller, Senior Finance Manager, Lead Accountant, Reporting Accountant, etc. 

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.