Chief Accountant

Chief Accountant - Interim (Remote)

Spencer Clarke Group are working with a West Midlands Authority to appoint an experienced Interim Chief Accountant to lead on the delivery of the Statement of Accounts and year-end close down.

This is a key technical leadership role, requiring strong Local Authority experience and the ability to drive a robust and timely closedown process.

• Day Rate: £500 - £600 per day (negotiable)
• Contract Length: 6 months initially
• Working Pattern: Remote
• Start Date: ASAP

You will take ownership of the 2025/26 financial year-end process, ensuring high-quality delivery of statutory accounts and a smooth audit.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the full closure of accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Acting as the primary liaison for external audit, managing queries and audit requirements
• Overseeing the preparation of notes, disclosures, and supporting schedules
• Coordinating and reviewing all working papers for year-end and audit
• Managing the closedown timetable and ensuring key deadlines are met across finance
• Providing technical accounting guidance across the finance team

You will bring:

• Proven experience leading Local Authority year-end closure
• Strong technical accounting knowledge within the public sector
• Experience managing external audit processes and relationships
• Ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and deliver to tight deadlines
• CCAB qualification (CIPFA / ACA / ACCA / CIMA) or equivalent experience

If you are interested, please submit your CV along with your required day rate. If successful, a consultant will be in touch to discuss the role in more detail.

We also offer a referral scheme of up to £300 - if you know someone suitable, feel free to pass this on.