Overview:
London Borough of Harrow is seeking an innovative and technically skilled Systems Accountant to play a leading role in the development, management and continuous improvement of the Council’s financial systems. Reporting to the Head of Finance, you will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy, reliability and integrity of financial data, while helping to enhance the systems, processes and tools that support effective financial management across the organisation.
This is a key role within the Finance Division, combining technical systems expertise with professional financial knowledge. You will act as the bridge between Finance, IT and operational services, ensuring that financial systems are configured, maintained and developed to meet both statutory requirements and evolving business needs. The role offers a unique opportunity to influence how technology supports financial decision-making, reporting and governance throughout the Council. You will lead on financial system improvements, reporting development, system upgrades, integrations and data management activities, while identifying opportunities to introduce automation, streamline processes and improve the user experience. Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you will help ensure that financial systems support accurate reporting, strong financial control and high-quality decision-making.
As part of the Council’s wider transformation agenda, you will play a significant role in driving innovation within the finance function, exploring emerging technologies and best practices to improve efficiency, strengthen financial management and enable smarter ways of working.
Why join Harrow?
At Harrow, we are proud to be a diverse, ambitious and resident-focused council. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where our people can thrive, develop their careers and make a meaningful difference to the communities we serve. In return, you will have the opportunity to work alongside talented professionals, contribute to important corporate priorities, support our climate ambitions and help shape the future of local government finance. If you are looking for a rewarding role where your expertise will be valued and your contribution recognised, we would love to hear from you.
About you:
We are seeking a qualified accountant with strong financial management and systems expertise, ideally gained within local government or a similarly complex organisation. You will have experience managing financial systems, reporting, system improvements and user support, with the ability to translate business needs into practical solutions. A strong analytical mindset, excellent stakeholder management skills and a commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and customer service are essential.
Key Requirements
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CCAB-qualified accountant with commitment to ongoing CPD.
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Strong knowledge of local government finance, IFRS, SeRCOP and the Prudential Code.
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Experience in finance systems, systems accounting or financial management roles.
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Expertise in financial systems administration, configuration, reporting and data management.
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Experience supporting system upgrades, implementations and enhancements.
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Knowledge of financial controls, governance, audit and risk management.
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Experience conducting UAT, system testing and validation.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving and Excel skills.
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Ability to identify automation and process improvement opportunities.
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Good project management and organisational skills.
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Experience producing user guidance, training materials and delivering training.
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Strong stakeholder management skills across Finance, IT and service areas.
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Ability to influence decisions, provide challenge and recommend solutions.
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Proactive, accountable and results-focused approach.
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Experience supporting and developing colleagues.
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Commitment to customer service, innovation and continuous improvement.
Related Documents:
For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/ Selection Criteria
