Principal Accountant

We are looking for a professional and highly capable senior Accountant to support the Head of Finance and Treasurer in advising the Authority, Principal Officers and Senior Officers on strategic and tactical financial issues; to manage the provision of a wide range of financial services to the Authority; to deputise for the Head of Finance and Treasurer, where necessary, on financial matters; and to act as a Senior Corporate Manager within the organisation.

Duties will include:

• Managing members of the Finance Team to provide high-quality financial services, including management accounting, statutory accounts production, budget preparation, treasury management, and ensuring timely and accurate financial returns.

• advising the Head of Finance and Service Managers, on strategic financial issues, ensuring finance aligns with corporate plans and performance management.

• managing the effectiveness of the Authority’s financial systems, ensuring strong control mechanisms and reliable management information for decision-making.

• evaluating new initiatives to inform financial decisions, investigating inefficiencies and budget variances, and providing training to non-financial managers on financial systems and policies.

• representing the Finance Department in multi-disciplinary projects and meetings, ensuring financial implications are considered.

• Supporting the Head of Finance and Treasurer in managing relationships with auditors and other partners is also key.

• you may deputise for the Head of Finance and Treasurer and act as a Senior Corporate Manager as needed.

Requirements of the role include:

• Fully Qualified CCAB Accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIPFA, ICAS and Chartered Accountants Ireland) Please state which in your application.

• Proven track record in financial and staff management at a senior level

• Ability to interpret and present financial data, statistics and trends in a meaningful way

• Working knowledge of public sector accounting practice

• Analytical ability to research, appraise and evaluate financial and strategic issues and options

• Resilient with a problem-solving mindset

To apply please complete the job application form and provide evidence of competency against the requirements of the role while considering the essential criteria listed on the attached job description. If you do not meet all of the essential criteria please still apply outlining the skills/experience that you do possess.

As well as a positive and inclusive workplace culture CFRS offers an excellent benefits package including membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme, attractive holiday entitlement of up to 31 days per annum plus up to 13 additional days flexi leave, training and development opportunities and access to free parking and free on-site gym.

Further information, a full job description and application form can be found below, or alternatively contact the HR Recruitment Team at recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Job description

Application guidance notes

Application form

Please return completed application forms via email to recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Please quote job reference 36/25/PA on your application form.

Closing date for applications: Midday on 6 October 2025

Workplace Adjustments and Accommodations

It is important that you consider at an early stage of the process if you would like to request arrangements that will assist you in completing the selection process. For example, in relation to disability; a neurodiverse condition such as dyslexia; pregnancy; religion or belief; or injury etc. Any requests for workplace adjustments will be treated with the utmost confidence. For support or further information please email: recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Appointment to this post is subject to a satisfactory Standard Disclosure & Barring Service check.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) is committed to keeping vulnerable adults, children and young people safe from harm in all of the work that CFRS undertakes. CFRS recognises that it has a legal and moral obligation to safeguard these groups of people. Furthermore, it acknowledges that the protection of vulnerable adults, children and young people from harm is the responsibility of everybody within the organisation.