Cedar is collaborating with a Local Authority in the South East to find a proactive and strategic HRA Accountant / Finance Business Partner. The successful candidate will provide expert HRA financial advice and support to senior members of staff, ensuring financial planning and budget proposals align with organisational goals.
Pay Rate: £250 - £350 per day (Inside IR35)
Location: South East
Hybrid Working Pattern: 2-3 days on site per week
Contract Length: 3 months
Responsibilities
- Oversee HRA budgeting and financial planning, ensuring the Council's financial strategy is met and proposals for budget growth are strong and compliant with corporate procedures.
- Highlight potential risks and opportunities for cost savings.
- Spearhead the closedown process of HRA accounts in line with established timescales and accounting standards.
- Monitor budgets to facilitate the production of year end forecasts by budget managers and challenge forecasts when necessary.
- Adhere to and drive compliance with financial regulations.
- Collaborate with senior members of staff and influence decision making.
- Assist with the financial aspects of local systems and identify training requirements.
- Oversee government returns and grant claims.
- Liaise with external partner organisations where required.
- Manage and mentor 1-2 members of staff.
Requirements
- CCAB qualified.
- HRA business planning experience in a Local Authority or similar.
- Knowledge of HRA, rent setting and rent accounting systems.
- Demonstrable experience working with substantial budgets and managing and producing reports on complex HRA issues.