Working hours: 35 hours per week, hybrid working Contract type: Permanent Closing date: 11.59pm, 15 May 2025 Interview method: in person Interview date: week commencing 2 June (subject to change) This role is subject to : Qualification - the role holder must be a qualified CCAB accountant. Manchester Energy Network, operational since 2021, is located in the heart of Manchester, providing heat and power to some of the c ity's most iconic buildings. The Energy Network is a wholly owned Manchester City Council commercial venture. The Network comprises of a 2km district heating connection, an energy centre containing a C ombined H eat and P ower engine and the ‘Tower of Light’, which has become a sculptural landmark in the city’s skyline and has been recognised through a number of architectural awards. As the Energy Network is about to enter into a critical phase of business change, linked to decarbonisation activity, a dedicated Group Financ e Lead is being sough t to join the Energy Network Team. The role will be key in ensuring that the business is operating effectively from both a financial and commercial perspective in order to deliver key targets outlined in the Energy Network’s business plan for 2025-30. The role holder will work with a range of stakeholders, primarily the Manchester Energy Network Special Purpose Vehicle Board and Manchester City Council, in capacity as Shareholder, as well as a range of specialist external consultants, including Vital Energi, who are responsible for operating and maintaining the Energy Network. This role will provide professional advice and guidance for team members and colleagues to support the delivery of Energy Network business priorities. About the Candidate We are looking for a person who has the drive and the determination to ensure that Manchester Energy Network financial activities run effectively, by leading the delivery and implementation of a number of key tasks, including: Overseeing all financial activities of Manchester Energy Network, including the quality assurance and analysis of monthly and quarterly outturn reports and cashflow forecasts. Providing the Manchester Energy Network Board and Shareholder with accurate and comprehensive financial information to guide effective decision making. Operate the Network’s commercial model to develop a range of financial scenario testing to inform key business activities such as offtaker tariff setting. Providing external auditors with the necessary support and documentation in order to successfully complete annual audits. Leading on all tax related matters for the business, including liaison with external tax advisors for tax return preparation. Co-ordination of the submission of a range of statutory returns related to the energy sector i.e. Climate Change Levy. Establishing effective processes and controls to ensure the integrity of the Energy Network financial procedures. Previous experience in the energy sector is not necessarily required, however, candidates should demonstrate the ability to deliver the key responsibilities outlined above. For further information, please contact: Sarah Narici, Assistant Director: Commercial Governance and Corporate Energy on [email protected] / 07971 384491 About Us We’re the local council for one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities. Working for Manchester isn’t just a job – it’s an opportunity to contribute to a city that leads change and transforms lives. Whether it’s strengthening communities or driving innovation in public services, you’ll play a vital role in creating opportunities and shaping a brighter future for everyone. Our Manchester is our vision for a fairer, greener, and healthier city – a vision shaped by the people of Manchester. It guides everything we do at the Council and is brought to life through the Our Manchester behaviours: We take time to listen and understand We work together and trust each other We show that we value our differences and treat each other fairly We ‘own it’ and we’re not afraid to try new things We’re proud and passionate about Manchester Benefits we offer Generous holiday allowance - Enjoy up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays. Increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service. Want more leave? You can purchase up to two additional weeks. A buzzing pension - You’ll be enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with plenty of options to top up your benefits. Includes life cover of three-times your salary as a lump sum. Enhanced parental and carers leave - Take advantage of our enhanced family leave options, designed to provide ample time for you to bond with your new born or support your family during critical life events. Brilliant perks - Access a range of discounts, from saving on the weekly shop to holidays and days out with MCR. Plus discounts on phone contracts, cycle to work scheme, free flu jabs and eye tests, and more. Learn and grow - We are dedicated to nurturing talent and providing you with the tools to thrive. Take part in a diverse set of learning opportunities, from workshops and training sessions through to apprenticeships and qualifications. All this begins with our comprehensive onboarding process. A Good Employment Charter member - W e are committed to offering secure, flexible work and embedding fairness into everything we do. We review pay annually, recognize three trade unions, and are constantly working to offer the best possible health and wellbeing support throughout all stages of your working life. Up to 3 days volunteering leave - Give back to the community with three days pro-rate of paid volunteering leave, in addition to existing benefits. Creating an Inclusive Team at Manchester City Council At Manchester City Council, we’re dedicated to creating a workplace that truly reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities, Disabled people and young people. Support During the Process Interview Adjustments : Let us know if you need any adjustments to demonstrate your suitability during the interview. Accessible Formats : Our ReciteMe tool can be accessed through the "Accessibility tools" button at the top of our careers page. This tool offers features like text-to-speech, translation into multiple languages, and adjustable text size and colour to make our site more accessible for everyone. Guaranteed Assessment Scheme We guarantee assessments for applicants who meet the minimum shortlisting requirement s for the role and identify with at least one of the criteria below : Members of the Armed Forces members or veterans Current or former care leavers Have a disability or long-term condition When You Join Us We’re a Disability Confident Employer, offering: A workplace adjustment hub which provides specialist support, advice and guidance to ensure you have the adjustments needed to thrive at work. Disabled Staff Network, Neurodiversity Staff Network and Mental Health Staff Network that provides a safe inclusive space to share experiences and opportunities to influence council practice. A strong commitment to ensuring all information adheres to accessibility standards and that our workplaces are accessible and disability-friendly. For more information about the role or any adjustments, email [email protected]. What we will need from you if you’re successful In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment. This is not a role we consider to be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route based on Manchester City Council policy. Candidates are therefore encouraged to consider their own right to work options without the requirement for Manchester City Council sponsorship. Pre-Employment Checks If you are successful in securing a position with us, the pre-employment checks will depend on the role you’ve applied for. As a guide, these checks may include: Proof of Right to Work : You’ll need to provide documentary evidence of your right to work in the UK. Please note, visa sponsorship is not guaranteed for this role. References : We’ll require references from your current and previous employer(s). Proof of Qualifications : Evidence of qualifications relevant to the role will be. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check : A criminal record check may be necessary, depending on the role. Proof of Manchester Residency : For some roles, you may need to demonstrate that you reside within the boundaries of Manchester City Council. Police Vetting : Some roles may require police vetting to ensure suitability for accessing sensitive law enforcement systems or information. Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) Clearance : BPSS clearance is primarily used for roles that involve access to government data, systems, or assets. It ensures that individuals meet basic security requirements and can be trusted with sensitive information Driving Licence : If the role requires driving, we’ll need evidence of your valid driving licence. These checks are an important part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our workforce and the community we serve. Other relevant information We want everyone to be able to be themselves at work and give their best. If you need additional support to undertake the duties of the role, we’ll make every effort to source any necessary aids, adaptations or equipment. If, however, any task proves to be unachievable, we will look at redesigning parts of the role. For more information about the role, please ensure that you read the role profile attached. Calculate your take home pay. Use this service to estimate how much Income Tax and National Insurance you should pay for the current tax year. Privacy Notice