Service Group Accountant (Medical Services)
Job summary
This post represents a key role within the Trusts Financial Management function, providing financial management support, advice and analysis for the Clinical Service Groups.
At the core of the role is the provision of high quality financial and activity information and advice to staff at all levels within the Trust. A key responsibility will be to develop the capabilities and understanding of others.
Due to the specialist nature of many of the projects it is imperative that the post holder can work with minimum supervision and plan and manage own workloads in line with directions provided by the Assistant Director of Financial Management.
It should be noted that the role will be a continuously evolving one and will change in accordance with the strategy, objectives and long-term goals of the organisation.
Delivery of professional support and advice to the Service Groups in all aspects of financial management and financial governance.
The post holder has direct professional accountability to the Finance Directorate, through the Assistant Director of Financial Management. The post reports directly to the Assistant Director of Financial Management and will work closely with the Service Groups management team, clinical and operational staff.
Main duties of the job
MAIN FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB- Provision of financial expertise to support the Service Groups.
- To support the Clinical Service Group management in all aspects of financial performance.
- Provide financial assurance through maintaining and establishing appropriate financial governance arrangements locally embedded within the Service Groups which the post holder is assigned to.
- To promote and assist in the establishment of a business culture by embedding PLICS/Service Line Management.
- Although not individually accountable for overspends, this post is specifically accountable (and relied upon) for integrity of financial information and will ensure that reporting of Service Group finance performance is robust.
- Overseeing local adherence to procurement and budget management processes in order to safeguard the resources of the Service Groups.
About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
- Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
- NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
- Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
- A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.
Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Job responsibilities
Please refer to the attached Job Description and Person Specification for more information about the role.Person specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Able to demonstrate several years' experience in a similar financial environment
- Current evidence of continued professional development
Desirable
- Educated to degree level
- CCAB qualification or AAT qualified
Experience
Essential
- Previous experience of working in a Management Accounting or similar environment
- Experience of staff supervision and/or development
- Substantial experience of using computer based financial information systems
- Proven extensive Financial & Business Track Record
Desirable
- Previous experience working within an NHS Finance function
- Experience of providing financial support to large capital and non-capital projects
Additional Criteria
Essential
- Awareness of broad strategic direction of NHS
- Sound knowledge of accounting procedures and good practice
- Detailed knowledge of the Trusts Standing Orders and Standing Financial Instructions
- Knowledge of NHS finance policies in relation to capital, staff pay, income and VAT
Desirable
- Awareness of the NHS finance regime