Employer:
Folkestone & Hythe District Council
Salary:
Grade J (£64,611 - £71,133 per annum) plus £3,900 car allowance
Location:
Civic Centre, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2QY / Flexible
Contract:
Permanent
Working Pattern:
Full Time
Hours:
37 hours per week.
DBS Check:
Yes
Closing Date:
31/08/2025 at 23:59
Reference:
GF01/25/319872
Are you a seasoned accounting professional with local government experience? Folkestone & Hythe District Council is seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Accountant to join our dedicated team and lead the Accountancy Team. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in supporting the financial future of our district, working closely with the s151 officer and Deputy s151 officer.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

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• Ensure budget preparation, monitoring, and the preparation of the Council’s annual financial statements are completed to specified standards and deadlines.

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• Provide professional advice to Members and service management on the financial implications of current and proposed service delivery activities.

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• Support new initiatives with financial modelling, options appraisal, and business planning.

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• Conduct professional and technical research to ensure financial management activities and reporting align with best practices and legislation.

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• Assist in the preparation of estimates for the Medium-Term Financial Strategy.

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• Lead the delivery of the annual financial statement and audit for the council, including HRA, subsidiary companies, and charities.

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• Manage the Collection Fund and oversee relevant accounting, returns, and pooling arrangements.

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• Attend corporate leadership team & Council committee meetings to introduce papers and respond to Member queries.

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• Lead, develop, and motivate accountancy staff, ensuring effective succession planning and training.

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• Identify and implement continuous improvement and best practice initiatives.

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• Liaise with external and internal auditors, ensuring timely responses and implementation of recommendations.

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• Optimise the use of technology in service delivery and identify new investment opportunities.