Senior Financial Accountant

Job summary

Support key financial processes and the production of year-end statutory accounts and tax returns. Lead on financial aspects of legal claims and assist in capital accounting and asset management within the NHS Scotland framework.

Job details

AfC Band 6 (pro rata) plus a High Secure Environmental Allowance of £1,818.72 per annum (pro rata) Hours 21.6 Contract Duration Fixed Term, 12 months Post Details Support the Board’s key financial processes, ensuring these are carried out in an efficient and timely manner, in accordance with Boards statutory and regulatory requirements. Assist with the production of the templates and word document for the year-end statutory annual accounts, and all statutory returns in relation to income tax, VAT, national insurance and superannuation. Play a key role in supporting the implementation of the NHS Scotland Business Services Programme, helping to deliver transformational changes to the finance system. Provide support to the management of the Financial Accounting Team and Patient Funds/Bank staff. Lead on all financial aspects of legal claims and works with the Central Legal Office and Scottish Government (SG) in ensuring these are appropriately funded Assist with the operational element of all capital accounting, and asset management including system management Provision of information for capital financial planning activities and revenue activities of the Board, in support of annual financial plans’ preparation and implementation, and accurate and timely reporting against these. Assist in the management and development of high-quality financial services and systems within the Board in compliance with the Boards corporate governance framework, statutory and professional responsibilities and standards. Ensure that financial controls are maintained within the Board corporate governance guidelines Provide quality information in support of internal and external audit, and to other stakeholders as required, including service agreements / contracts with other NHSScotland boards. Deputise for the Deputy Director of Finance as required. Experience A relevant degree or equivalent experience in a similar role, preferably within the NHS or public sector environment, or able to demonstrate equivalent competencies, knowledge, or experience. Ability to exercise initiative and seek alternative solutions (workarounds). Ability to communicate effectively verbally and written at all levels, both internally and externally. Ability to prioritise work and work on own initiative whilst under pressure. Experience of managing and developing staff. In-depth knowledge of Financial Reporting Standards Specialist NHS Vat knowledge required to ensure appropriate Vat treatment has been applied in statutory returns Advanced knowledge of public sector Capital Accounting Manual Proficient IT skills including a working knowledge of Cedar & financial systems reporting tools. Extensive knowledge of financial reporting and statutory NHS requirements. Ensuring confidentiality, diplomacy and discretion are maintained all times Why Join Us? This is a key leadership role within a highly committed Finance team, offering the opportunity to influence financial planning at a strategic level and support highquality specialist services within NHS Scotland. You will work in a supportive environment that values accuracy, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Closing Date The closing date for applications is 4th October 2026. If you have any queries or require assistance regarding the application form or recruitment process, please contact the HR Team on to discuss your requirements. NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society. It should be noted that the State Hospital is a high secure hospital and the current organisational position based on a risk assessment is that we welcome applications from people under the age of 18 for non clinical roles however to be eligible for a clinical role applicants should be 18 years and older. Should you have any questions in relation to this please contact Right to Work To work in the UK, you must have valid permission granted by UK Visas and Immigration. NHS Scotland Boards check this as part of pre-employment checks, which can be evidenced through visas or settled/pre-settled status. For details, visit the GOV.UK website. Some posts may allow sponsorship under the Skilled Worker or Health & Care Worker visa, but only if the employer is a licensed sponsor and the role meets salary thresholds. Please note: The State Hospital is NOT licensed to issue certificates of sponsorship. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship. It is essential that you confirm your right to work before applying. Artificial Intelligence Candidates should provide responses that are accurate, authentic, and reflective of their own knowledge, skills, and experience. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist in drafting responses is permitted, provided that all information is factual, verifiable, and can be supported by evidence if requested. By submitting your application, you confirm that your answers are truthful and represent your personal experience. Any misleading or fabricated content may result in your application being withdrawn from the recruitment process.

What you’ll do

Support key financial processes and the production of year-end statutory accounts and tax returns. Lead on financial aspects of legal claims and assist in capital accounting and asset management within the NHS Scotland framework.

Requirements

Requires a relevant degree or equivalent experience, preferably within the NHS or public sector, with in-depth knowledge of Financial Reporting Standards. Proficiency in Cedar financial systems and specialist NHS VAT knowledge are essential.

Listed skills

• Time management · Preferred
• Asset Management · Preferred
• Financial Reporting · Preferred
• Financial planning · Preferred
• Communication Skills · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Financial Reporting
• Statutory Accounting
• VAT Knowledge
• Capital Accounting
• Asset Management
• Financial Planning
• Corporate Governance
• Internal Audit
• External Audit
• Staff Management
• Cedar Financial System
• Public Sector Accounting
• NHS Financial Requirements
• Financial Controls
• Communication Skills
• Time Management

Job areas

• Finance & Accounting
• Healthcare
• Government & Public Sector
• Management & Leadership