Applications for this job are now closed
Epping Forest District Council takes its name from the forest which runs from its southern boundary northwards.
The district shares boundaries with Greater London and Hertfordshire.
The three main settlements of Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell and Loughton contain more than half the population of approximately 131,000 people but occupy only 5% of the
district.
The remaining 95% is made up of separate market towns, villages and hamlets in attractive countryside; most of the district is protected as part of the Metropolitan Green Belt, with no less than 25 Designated Conservation Areas.
As well as its rural aspect, Epping Forest has excellent transport links, with the M25 and M11 motorways running through the district and central London is only 30 minutes away through direct access to the Central Line.
It is a great place where people enjoy living, working, learning and leisure.
The Council has ambitious plans and a first-class Finance function is integral to the achievement of those plans.
To this end, the Corporate Finance Team is undergoing transformational change, with an overwhelming commitment to customer service and a clear vision to achieve financial sustainability and excellence in all its forms.
About the Role
An outstanding opportunity has arisen for a Graduate Accountant, working within the rapidly developing Corporate Finance Team.
It is a new role and a key part of the long-term strategy to develop future senior professional capacity through utilising the
opportunities available through the apprenticeship scheme.
Reporting to the Principal Accountant, working directly as part of a team of five, as well as the wider Corporate Finance Team, the successful candidate will be vital part of a team that delivers a first-class finance and accountancy service to its customers and meets all relevant professional, and nationally recognised, good practice standards.
The successful candidate will also be expected to study for, and successfully complete, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) examinations, for which full study support will be given, including a study time allowance of 20% (one day per week).On the job training, as well as professional study, is an essential component to reaching the required professional standard over time.
To this end, breadth of work experience is a key priority.
The Graduate Accountant will therefore have detailed involvement in areas ranging from assisting the Council’s Treasury Management team and operating a range of control functions, including bank and feeder system reconciliations through to helping to prepare annual Statement of Accounts.
About You
The successful candidate will hold a relevant degree in a Finance or Business-related subject.
Some Finance-related experience would be desirable, but is not essential; above all, the successful candidate will demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm and commitment to a professional career in public finance.
A genuine enthusiasm for transformation and excellence is also essential.
What we can Offer You
A competitive starting salary is available, with future pay progression dependent on performance and progress in the CIPFA examinations.
The role comes with a full CIPFA training and support package as part of the Council’s highly successful apprenticeship scheme.
This includes professional mentoring support and a minimum 20% study time allowance. All study and examination expenses will be met.
The Council can offer an excellent working environment through its new “collaborative working” approach, which promotes remote working as well as on site working at our newly refurbished Civic Offices in Epping, which is a modern, high specification workspace.
The Council also offers a range of other benefits including a basic 28-days annual leave in addition to public holidays and access to the Local Government Pension
Epping Forest District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
