Job Description

The successful applicant is specifically responsible for reviewing and implementing robust financial internal controls and will act as the primary source of financial accounting advice and expertise for the organisation. The role is also responsible for key areas of the business including the preparation of the annual accounts, meat hygiene charging, treasury functions (cash and banking) and accounts payable/receivable.

The main duties are:
 Manage the Financial Accounting team, ensuring that objectives are set, tasks are prioritised and capabilities within the team continue to be developed. Contribute to the annual branch business plan.
Manage the work for charging for official controls in meat establishments. Ensure the implementation of the Scottish charging model including the production, negotiation and publication of the annual charge rates whilst working with the branch head to review on an ongoing basis and that remains fit for purpose.
Manage the Accounts Payable & Receivable functions (including debt management), ensuring payments to suppliers within the Scottish Government (SG) 10 payment target and the invoicing service to customers are completed whilst ensuring the appropriate controls and reconciliations are in place.
Manage the work for SG VAT returns, FSS fixed asset register, bank reconciliations, cash forecasting and drawdowns, ensuring all tasks are completed in a timely manner and that internal processes are fit for purpose.
Complete monthly account checks and balance sheet reconciliations to provide accurate and timely advice, management and reporting of the finances to the branch head and input to the monthly report to the Senior
Management Team (SMT).
Prepare the Annual Accounts in line with the guidelines and standards.
Work to include review of accruals and prepayments, management of and accounting for fixed assets, management of debtors and answering audit questions.
Work closely with the Finance Manager to review internal controls, systems and processes across both teams as well as capacity and capability of the finance function in the business.
Continue the development of a Best Value framework to demonstrate that attributes and practices are embedded in the organisation within the way it works.
Work with the HR team to review requirements for Dual/Multi-based workplaces and HMRC regulations and put forward proposal for discussion and agreement to SMT.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

CCAB qualified accountant with suitable practical experience. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to clearly articulate objectives as well as demonstrating confidence and tact working with customers at all levels. Proven leadership skills - ability to lead a team and empower, value, develop and motivate people Excellent analytical skills to review range of information and data, draw conclusions and communicate solutions to others. People Management experience Communications & Engagement skills Analysis & Use of Evidence experience Financial Management experience