Interim Principal Accountant

Morgan LawLondonreedpublished 10/29/2026

Must-have:SeniorPrincipal

Morgan Law is seeking an Interim Principal Accountant - Housing for a local authority in London.

Accountabilities

Preparation of the annual budget for the service area, including the development of complex staffing budgets following service reorganisation.
Preparation of monthly budget monitoring reports, including detailed variance analysis, identification of cost pressures, and provision of clear financial commentary.
Responding to external audit queries and providing additional financial information and supporting documentation as required.
Providing high-level financial advice, guidance, and support to the Service Director and Senior Managers.
Maintaining and updating the corporate grants register and financial training manual, as well as delivering financial training and guidance to Budget Managers.

Candidate Requirements

CCAB or CIMA qualified accountant, with relevant post-qualification experience in finance and accounting
Strong experience in budget setting, budget monitoring, forecasting and medium-term financial planning.
Experience supporting budget holders and senior managers within a complex organisation, ideally within local government or the wider public sector.
Experience of preparing and analysing management accounts, financial reports and forecasts, identifying financial risks, trends and variances.
Experience of year-end closedown processes, preparation of accounts and supporting external audit requirements.
Strong analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial and non-financial data and develop evidence-based recommendations.
Ability to provide sound financial advice, constructive challenge and technical guidance to senior stakeholders.
Knowledge of local government financial management, public sector accounting standards and the financial challenges facing local authorities.

Interim Principal Accountant - Housing Local Government