Finance Accountant

As the only Financial Accountant within ESS, you will ensure the organisation maintains accurate accounts and records which meet the high regularity and propriety standards expected of a public body. You will lead on the annual accounts and related external audit requirements, alongside ongoing financial reporting requirements across the year. For example: update reports to the Executive Team and Board; attendance and reporting at Audit and Risk Committee meetings; reporting to Scottish Government on staffing and lease arrangements; and medium and long-term financial projections.You will also lead on streamlining ESS finance functions, implementing action plans and improvements in response to need, alongside audit actions arising from external and internal reviews. For example: the development of ESS annual budget; the implementation of an ongoing review of ESS financial accounting policies; ensuring compliance of related processes and controls with the latest accounting standards and guidance; and supporting the on-boarding of the new Oracle finance system (due to take place on 1 October 2024).You will report directly to the Head of Corporate Services and Communications, with support from the Business and Finance Manager (responsible for the operational delivery of ESS services) and two Business Support Officers (all of whom work across a range of services). There are no current line management responsibilities. Learning and development opportunities are also available as set out below.What will the successful candidate be doing?This is a key role within the Corporate Services and Communications team. You will work with the ESS Board, colleagues and stakeholders, across all levels, to assist with the work of ESS. You will need an eye for detail and the ability to be creative in your approach to challenges, alongside being proactive in seeking to continuously improve existing processes and procedures.