Principal Accountant

Principal Accountant - £400-£450 Per Day Inside IR35 - Hybrid Working - 6 Month Contract

Cedar Recruitment are currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Accountant to work for a Public Sector client in London on an interim basis.

The successful person will support the Accounting team in delivering strategic accounting and high quality financial reporting across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the production of the annual Statement of Accounts and year-end closure process
• Maintain the integrity of the chart of accounts and ensure accurate financial reporting
• Lead on Collection Fund accounting, revenue accounting, VAT, and balance sheet management
• Prepare and submit statutory and non-statutory returns (e.g. WGA, NNDR, CTR, VAT)
• Provide technical accounting advice and ensure compliance with relevant standards and CIPFA guidance
• Oversee group accounts, grant accounting, and accounting for schools and related entities
• Manage audit processes, respond to queries, and ensure robust working papers
• Monitor and reconcile balance sheet accounts, ensuring all balances are accurate and supported
• Support council tax setting and oversee revenue related financial processes
• Develop and improve financial procedures, guidance, and reporting tools
• Deputise for the Deputy Chief Accountant when required

Essential Experience:

• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including statutory reporting and VAT
• Experience of working within local government finance
• Ability to manage complex financial processes and meet strict deadlines
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Hold a relevant finance qualification ie. CIMA or ACCA

Should you meet the minimum requirements, then please apply and one of the team will be in touch to discuss with you further.

Alternatively, please refer someone for a voucher if they are successfully placed and stay for the duration of the contract.