Senior Financial Accountant – West Midlands Combined Authority

As the Senior Financial Accountant you will safeguard the financial health of the West Midlands Combined Authority, preparing statutory financial statements, leading monthly balance sheet reporting and providing technical accounting advice across the organisation.

What You Will Be Doing

• Support the Group Financial Accounting and Reporting Manager in identifying process improvement opportunities, mitigating risks and implementing controls.
• Work with the Group Financial Accounting & Reporting Manager on implementing new accounting standards in line with the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting.
• Provide financial accounting advice and technical support to the finance team and wider organisation, including subsidiaries.
• Deliver finance team training and support the development of finance staff through regular 1‑2‑1 sessions and motivation.
• Prepare statutory financial statements for the West Midlands Combined Authority and its group in compliance with the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting.
• Lead preparation and review of monthly Balance Sheet reporting, key reconciliations and control accounts.
• Participate in and manage internal and external audit requests and other compliance activities.
• Ensure implementation and compliance of financial policies, controls and capital accounting in line with applicable legislation and the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting.
• Manage the grants process, ensuring proper accounting practices.

What’s Essential

• CCAB qualified accountant with current active membership body status.
• Strong background in financial accounting, month‑end close, balance sheet reporting and statutory accounts preparation.
• Experience liaising with senior staff and external auditors.
• Knowledge of public sector scrutiny and management of grants and income streams.
• In‑depth knowledge of the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting and IFRS.
• Proficiency in accounting systems and procedures.
• Self‑motivation, strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, and a commitment to excellent presentation.
• Advanced Excel skills and confidence handling large data sets.
• Resilience under pressure and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Location

16 Summer Lane, Birmingham, B19 3SD – at least two days a week in the office.

Benefits

• Local Government Pension Scheme – one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK.
• 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more).
• EV car benefit scheme.
• Ethical saving options and healthcare plans.
• Discounted gym membership, will writing and mortgage advice.
• Option to buy bicycle, including e‑bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.
• 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
• Interest‑free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology.
• Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big‑name retailers.

Why Join WMCA

WMCA is laser‑focused on improving the West Midlands, driving economic growth, jobs, homes and better journeys. We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with partners to direct funding where it’s needed most. Your expertise will help make a big difference – improving people’s lives every day.

Inclusivity & Equality

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, is a Disability Confident Employer and recognises inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including part‑time, flexible and job‑share arrangements.

Right to Work

Proof of Right to Work in the UK is required before any employment offer can be confirmed. Non‑UK applicants (excluding Ireland) must hold a relevant UK visa.