Job Description

Interim Pension Fund Accountant - Local Authority

Contract Type: Interim
Duration: 6 months
Day Rate: 300 - 400 per day

Location: Remote working with occasional on site requirement

Cedar is currently supporting a local authority with the recruitment of a Financial Accountant with Pension Fund accounting experience. This is an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic local authority on an interim basis and play a pivotal role in managing and reporting on their Pension Fund.

About the Role:

As an Interim Pension Fund Accountant, you will be responsible for delivering a range of complex corporate accounting services to the Pension Fund. You'll ensure statutory compliance, produce high-quality financial reports, and provide strategic financial advice to key stakeholders, including the Pension Committee and Board.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, coordination, and production of the year-end Pension Fund accounts, ensuring full compliance with statutory requirements.
• Act as the primary contact for external auditors and ensure all financial statements meet CIPFA standards.
• Prepare and present financial reports and updates to the Pension Committee and Pension Board, attending formal meetings as required.
• Maintain the council's pension fund ledger and prepare detailed monitoring reports on investment performance and asset valuations.
• Partner with the Pension Administration Team to ensure accurate financial information and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Support employer-related activities, including contributions, admissions, and exits, in consultation with the Fund Actuary.
• Monitor cashflows in collaboration with the Treasury Management team, ensuring robust short- and long-term financial planning.
• Stay ahead of legislative changes impacting pension fund finances, developing innovative accounting solutions and policies.

Essential experience:

• CCAB Qualified
• Proven expertise in pension fund accounting and local government finance.
• Strong knowledge of CIPFA standards, statutory accounting, and financial reporting requirements.
• Experience liaising with external auditors and presenting financial reports to committees and boards.
• Excellent analytical skills with a proactive approach to problem-solving.