Principal Finance Officer (x3 roles)
Salary: £35,745 - £36,648 per annum Hours: 37 hours per week (part-time hours also considered)Location: Hybrid - the team work remotely and from office locations at Carlisle, Workington or Whitehaven.Contract: Permanent
About us:
Cumberland Council is an ambitious and forward-thinking authority dedicated to shaping a better future for our communities. We are passionate about creating a vibrant future by addressing inequalities, creating thriving economies that work for our residents and protecting our environment.
At the core of our vision is a commitment to our people, with health and well-being being integral to everything we do, underscoring every initiative and ensuring we provide unparalleled support for all.
We can’t do it without you! Come and embark on the journey to a vibrant future with us, where the work you do will make a real impact. Together, let's shape a community that's as dynamic and inclusive as our landscape. Be a part of the transformation!
#WeAreCumberland
About this opportunity
Are you an experienced finance professional and considering a change of role? If the answer is yes, we have a fantastic opportunity for you to join our team at Cumberland Council.
We are looking for experienced finance professionals (AAT or part qualified CCAB/CIMA accountant) who possess strong technical and analytical skills and are keen to make a significant contribution to shaping the future of the Finance team and Cumberland.
You will be part of a team delivering a range of financial activities including: preparation and monitoring of revenue of capital budgets and medium term financial plan; monthly reconciliations and other control activities; maintaining financial records, assisting with the preparation of the Statement of Accounts; preparation of financial returns, treasury management, VAT and insurance administration.
You will support the Finance Manager in providing flexible and professional financial services to support the management of the Council budget in accordance with the Council Plan, maintaining accurate and up to date financial records and ensuring the delivery of high quality financial reports.
You can choose to be based in any of our Cumberland offices as well as working remotely.
Who we’re looking for
• Experienced finance professional (Fully qualified member of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) or part qualified CCAB/CIMA Accountant) • Extensive practical knowledge and technical background in accounting covering all aspects of budget preparation, monitoring, year- end accounting and the application of current accounting standards• Good communication skills including experience of training / coaching one-to- one or in a group environment• Attention to detail • Excellent Excel and data analysis skills.• A positive ‘can do’ attitude• Someone who is driven, who would like to grow and develop with the business to build a long-term career.
Fundamentally, we are seeking individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change and shape a better future for our communities. Your commitment to these principles will be instrumental in delivering services that are vital to the well-being and prosperity of our residents.
If this sounds like you, then please get in touch!
What can we offer you
• Competitive rates of pay and annual pay increase*• 25-31 days holiday each year plus bank holiday allowance plus option to purchase up to 2 weeks additional leave and spread the cost over 12 months• Learning and development opportunities including development time each week (where applicable)• Flexible working arrangements including the ability to work from home supporting a culture that fits around you (subject to role)• Opportunity to join the generous Local Government Pension Scheme with defined benefit plans securing your future• Boost your pension with Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (facilitated by AVC Wise)• Money off your local gym including Better, Newfield Health, The Gym Group and Lifestyle Fitness• In house staff support networks • 20% off a Vodafone mobile phone contract for you and up to 5 family and friends• Various discount schemes including RAC roadside recovery discount and money off local supportive businesses• Employee assistance programme and access to in-house Occupational Health service including physio treatment and access to external counselling service• Tusker car leasing salary sacrifice scheme as well as an esteem car loan scheme for essential car users• Spec Savers eyecare voucher
*In accordance with the National Joint Council for Local Government Services
Application and Interview information
Closing date: Monday 4th November 2024Interview date: Week commencing 11th November 2024Our interview process can accommodate both in-person and virtual formats, with tailored options discussed upon invitation to the interview stage. Preferred for virtual interviews is the use of Microsoft Teams, currently available for new users at no cost. However, should you encounter any challenges accessing this technology, we are open to discussing alternative arrangements prior to the scheduled interviews.
Work-Life balance Cumberland Council is deeply invested in fostering a work culture that prioritises the well-being and balance of our team members. Embracing flexible and hybrid working models, we empower employees to achieve optimal work-life balance.
Recognising the importance of personal time, we offer a generous holiday allowance, providing ample opportunity for rest and rejuvenation. Additionally, our flexible working hours, including flexitime arrangements, further contribute to a supportive environment where individuals can effectively manage their professional and personal commitments.
Continuing Professional Development
We are committed to nurturing the ongoing growth and professional advancement of our valued team members to fulfil your potential and advance your career. Our comprehensive career development and training offer emphasises continuous learning as a cornerstone for achieving both individual and organisational goals. Through our robust Organisational Development initiatives, we offer a suite of support programmes tailored to meet diverse needs, including participation in our esteemed Aspiring to be a Manager programme and access to our enriching Coaching and Mentoring programmes.
Keeping the people we work with safe We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expect unwavering commitment to this cause from our employees, volunteers, and the Externally Provided Workforce (EPWs). Together, we create a secure environment where every individual is safeguarded and respected.
We welcome applications from everyone At Cumberland Council, we are dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce, striving to mirror the rich tapestry of the communities we proudly serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are devoted in fostering an inclusive, supportive culture that embraces and appreciates our unique differences.
As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we ensure that applicants with disabilities, meeting the essential criteria for this position, are guaranteed an interview as part of our commitment to equal opportunities. Your diverse perspectives and talents contribute to our collective success.
We're also an Age Friendly Employer, meaning we commit to providing an inclusive workplace for people in their 50s and 60s and taking the necessary action to help them flourish in a multigenerational workforce. We recognise the importance of mature workers and aim to provide an environment on which they can thrive.
Reasonable Adjustments: We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know on; Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. We will ensure that these adjustments are made to accommodate your needs.
Your Voice Matters; Connect, Engage, and Make Your Voice Heard!We don't just encourage engagement—we celebrate it. That's why we've cultivated a vibrant community of staff networking groups where every voice matters.
These groups are more than just forums—they're hubs of innovation and inclusion, dedicated to sparking fresh ideas, challenging the status quo, and championing equality and fairness for all. From exploring new perspectives to shaping policies that reflect our diverse workforce, our staff networks play a pivotal role in driving positive change.
Join us and become part of something bigger:• Race Equality• Rainbow Alliance• Menopause Support• Carers Network• Shine Community• Wellbeing/Health Advocates• Be a Change Champion to shape our council's future through transformative initiatives.
Please read the supporting information:
Post Specification
Role Profile
