Group Accountant - High Needs Block

Job Opportunity: Group Accountant - High Needs Block
Location: Lynton House, Ilford (Hybrid Working – minimum 2 days per week in Redbridge)
Employment Type: Contract | Full-Time (36 hours per week) | 3 months contract
Salary: Competitive daily rate (please contact us for details)

Are you an experienced finance professional eager to make a meaningful impact in local authority education services? Redbridge Borough is seeking a highly qualified Group Accountant - High Needs Block to join our Education & Inclusion Directorate. If you possess strategic financial expertise, leadership flair, and a passion for supporting children and young people with SEND, this is your chance to shape the future of SEND finance in London.

About the Role: Group Accountant - High Needs Block

As the Group Accountant - High Needs Block, you will be a key figure in the council’s financial management of SEND services, working closely with senior stakeholders to guide strategic decision-making, enable service transformation, and ensure statutory compliance. Reporting to the Education Service Business Manager, the ideal candidate will lead a team of up to four finance professionals, delivering high-level financial advice and innovative solutions.

This pivotal role will involve producing financial forecasts, managing budgets, supporting transformation initiatives, and representing Redbridge in various regional and national forums. Your expertise will directly influence sustainable service delivery for children and young people with SEND across the borough.

Candidate Responsibilities: Group Accountant - High Needs Block

• Provide expert financial guidance and strategic advice for the High Needs Block funding and expenditure.
• Lead monthly and quarterly budget monitoring, forecasting, and financial performance reporting.
• Support service transformation through financial modelling and business case development.
• Manage the preparation of statutory accounts, financial returns, and external audits.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, control processes, and reporting accuracy.
• Support senior leadership in decision-making, risk management, and service redesign.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of finance staff, fostering a culture of excellence and growth.
• Represent the council at regional and national forums, sharing expertise and best practices.

Candidate Responsibilities: Group Accountant - High Needs Block (Continued)

• Assist in identifying savings opportunities, managing financial risks, and developing recovery plans when needed.
• Support funding applications and strategic project evaluations through financial analysis.
• Ensure compliance with local authority financial regulations, statutory requirements, and closedown processes.

Benefits of Joining Redbridge

• Hybrid working with flexible arrangements.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and career progression.
• Dynamic and supportive team environment.
• Influence and shape local authority services supporting vulnerable children and families.
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and inclusion.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should contact our recruitment consultant, Jane Doe, to learn more about the Group Accountant - High Needs Block position.

Email: jane.doe@redbridge.gov.uk
Phone: 01234 567890

Take this opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking council dedicated to making a difference. Apply now and contribute to the future of SEND services in Redbridge!