This an exciting opportunity to join Runnymede Borough Council as we continue our positive work. As an Accountant, you will:
- Prepare the annual budgets for a range of services in accordance with the agreed estimate programme
- Prepare the final accounts for services in accordance with the agreed closing programme.
- Develop the system for the effective budgetary control of services by reviewing the systems for providing budgetary control data, to ensure that, in consultation with Budget Managers, variances are identified and reported effectively, and appropriate action taken.
- Assist the Senior Accountant as directed and in accordance with agreed procedures.
- Provide proactive and receptive advice and assistance to Members and Managers as requested
- Recover sums owed from third parties in accordance with written legal agreements on a periodical basis
Benefits
- Hybrid working 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home (pro rata)
- Flexible working and Flexi-leave
- 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro rata)
- Excellent Pension Scheme
- Free Parking
- Training and development opportunities
- Payment of one professional membership per annum
- Cycle to work + further related discounts
- Season ticket loan
- Health insurance plan after 1 years’ service/ Dental after 3 years' service
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
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Salary
Please note that Runnymede Borough Council is currently undertaking a pay and grading review, which is expected to be implemented during the summer. The successful applicant will be appointed under the Council’s current grading and salary structure and, following implementation of the new framework, will be assimilated into the revised pay structure in line with all existing employees.
This grading in the new pay structure for this role will be RBC5-6, with a salary range of £38,434 to £46,956.
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Accountant to join our finance team. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, supporting budgeting processes, and ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulations. We are looking for candidates with a range of skills including:
- Qualified member of a CCAB body with full membership
- Knowledge of budget setting and budgetary control functions.
- Knowledge of cost allocation, recharging mechanisms and reconciling control accounts
- Well versed in using the Microsoft Office suite of applications including Word, Excel, MS Teams and Outlook
- Worked in an accounting function
- Confident with using figures and has the ability to collect, understand and interpret information and explain the meaning of figures in a clear way to non-finance staff and other stakeholders
- Ability to understand, analyse and interpret financial data and present it in a format suitable for reporting
- Able to review and proof-read documentation effectively to check for completeness and accuracy
- Ability to develop the potential of IT packages
- Ability to work accurately and methodically to deadlines.
- Able to cope with competing demands and multiple deadlines
- Able to resolve difficult or complex issues
- Able to organise own workload and work independently
Interview Date: Monday 10th August 2026
Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward- thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our core values which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We continually strive to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision.
From March 2027, Runnymede Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey Unitary Council as part of the Local Government Reorganisation across Surrey. West Surrey will bring together the full range of local government services under one organisation, creating simpler, more efficient and more responsive services for our communities.
As one of the largest unitary authorities in the country, West Surrey will serve a diverse population across a region with a strong economy, vibrant communities, and significant opportunities for growth and innovation. The scale and variety of our work will provide a wide range of career pathways, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to shaping an ambitious, modern, resident‑focused council. It is an exciting time to join us as we build West Surrey together.
Runnymede Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with care support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You may be requested to present your identification at the interview stage and there will be several checks conducted during the onboarding process inclusive of an enhanced DBS check for specified roles.
All applications are handled in compliance with our privacy policy
Use of AI in your application
We understand that some applicants may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with preparing their applications.
All submitted information whether supported by AI or not must accurately reflect the applicant’s own skills, experience, and qualifications. Recruitment decisions will be based on how well applicants demonstrate these attributes during the interview and selection process.
