Senior Financial Accountant

Start: ASAP

Duration: 3 months with possibility of extension

Location: Hybrid (expected on‑site presence as required)

Role Overview

The Surrey Pension Fund is seeking an experienced Senior Financial Accountant to provide high‑calibre financial leadership during a key period.

You will take operational ownership of fund accounting, reporting, controls, budgeting and senior stakeholder engagement, ensuring business‑as‑usual continuity and supporting the year‑end cycle.

This is a hands‑on, delivery‑focused assignment ideal for a seasoned contractor with strong LGPS/public‑sector pensions finance experience.

Key Deliverables

You will lead and deliver:

Financial Controls & Governance - ensure robust reconciliations, controls, compliance and risk management.

Budgeting & Forecasting - manage the Surrey Pension Team budget and Fund forecasts.

Cashflow & Banking Operations - oversee all income, banking transactions, allocations and KPIs.

Pension Fund Accounts & Annual Report - oversee preparation, accuracy and audit readiness.

Reporting & Insight - draft and present high‑quality financial reports for Committee/Board and senior leadership.

Team Leadership - oversee a small team, providing direction, prioritisation and support.

Deputise for Head of Pensions - Resources when required.

Essential Experience

The assignment requires a contractor who can "hit the ground running" with minimal onboarding:

Fully qualified accountant: ACA / ACCA / CIPFA

Strong LGPS or public‑sector finance experience

High proficiency with financial systems, data analysis, modelling and reconciliation

Proven ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information

Leadership & Delivery

Track record of successfully leading finance teams or functions

Ability to stabilise, organise and improve BAU activities

Clear, confident communication with senior boards and committees

Strong stakeholder management across finance, investments, auditors and external partners

Highly organised, proactive, independent and delivery‑driven

Ideal Contractor Profile

Immediately available or short notice

Comfortable stepping into a senior role with autonomy

Skilled at stabilising workloads, improving clarity, and driving outcomes quickly

Confident presenting financial insights to non‑finance audiences

Connect2Surrey is a trading style of Surrey & Kent Commercial Services LLP - A joint venture between Surrey County Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Surrey is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates