About the Role

Everest Recruitment and Services is working with Dudley Council to recruit an experienced Chief Accountant for an interim engagement covering the 2025/26 financial year-end closure and audit process.

This is a senior finance role requiring a highly capable accountant with proven Local Authority experience who can lead year-end activities with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full closure of accounts for the 2025/26 financial year, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely completion
• Act as primary liaison with external auditors, coordinating requests and resolving queries throughout the audit process
• Prepare clear, well-structured notes and supporting schedules to facilitate management review and sign-off
• Oversee the coordination, quality and completeness of all working papers for year-end and audit activities
• Manage and maintain the closedown timetable, ensuring all stakeholders across the finance function meet deadlines

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior finance role within a Local Authority — essential
• Strong knowledge of local government accounting standards (CIPFA/LASAAC)
• Demonstrable experience leading year-end accounts closure
• Experience liaising with external auditors
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple stakeholders remotely
• CCAB qualified (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) — preferred
• Right to Work in the UK

IR35 Notice This role falls inside IR35. Candidates must be engaged via an approved umbrella company.

Why Apply Through Everest Recruitment?

• 🔹 Senior finance roles across UK public sector
• 🔹 Dedicated consultant support throughout
• 🔹 Fast, straightforward onboarding process
• 🔹 AWR-compliant engagement from day one

Apply Now 📧 recruitment@evereuser.co.uk 📞 +44 7876 610072 (24/7) 🌐 www.evereuser.co.uk

Everest Recruitment and Services Ltd is an equal opportunities employer. Registration No. 12983360. Your data will be processed in accordance with GDPR (2018