Assistant Financial Accountant, Financial Reporting Officer,

As part of the Financial Reporting team, you will support the delivery of accurate, timely and high‑quality financial information across the Group, providing technical accounting input and working closely with colleagues across the department and its Arm's‑Length Bodies (ALBs). This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to develop strong financial reporting and technical accounting skills within a large and diverse government department.

You will be at the heart of the financial reporting process, contributing to the preparation of the consolidated ARA, supporting Whole of Government Accounts (WGA) returns, and helping ensure our financial information is compliant, well-evidenced and trusted.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Support the preparation of the annual Report and Accounts and Whole of Government Accounts submissions.
• Assist in the consolidation of group financial data, including intercompany reconciliations across ALBs.
• Provide technical accounting support in line with IFRS as adapted by the Financial Reporting Manual (FReM).
• Prepare evidence, schedules and explanations to support year‑end audit requests.
• Work collaboratively with teams across Defra to ensure financial information is complete, accurate and submitted on time.
• Support the preparation of draft financial statements and contribute to the implementation of new accounting policies.
• Review and help improve financial reporting processes, identifying opportunities for greater efficiency and quality.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders across the Group.

About You

We are looking for individuals who:

• Have an interest in financial reporting and public sector accounting.
• Are comfortable working with numbers and interpreting financial information.
• Can analyse data, spot inconsistencies and support the production of accurate financial outputs.
• Have strong communication skills and can work confidently with colleagues across different teams and organisations.
• Are organised, able to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Bring a proactive, problem‑solving mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement.

A background or qualification in finance/accounting is helpful but not essential-we welcome applicants motivated to develop these skills.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work at the centre of Financial reporting process.
• Experience in delivering consolidated group accounts for a major government department.
• Professional development in technical accounting, IFRS and public sector financial frameworks (FReM).
• Collaboration with a wide range of finance professionals across government.
• A supportive environment that encourages learning and career progression.