Public sector finance interviews usually mix technical questions, questions about working with budget holders and questions about the organisation. Here are common questions and how to answer them well.
Technical
- Talk us through how you would monitor a budget. Cover forecasting, explaining variances and agreeing actions with the budget holder.
- What happens at year-end? Explain accruals, reconciliations, working papers and working with the auditors.
- How would you spot a weakness in controls? Give an example of a control you tested or improved.
Working with others
- A service manager disagrees with your forecast. What do you do? Show you can listen, check the numbers and explain your view clearly.
- Explain a complex financial issue to someone without a finance background. Keep it short and practical.
- Tell us about a time you met a tight deadline. Be specific about what you did.
The organisation
- What are the main financial pressures facing us? Read the latest budget report and statement of accounts before the interview.
- Why do you want to work in the public sector? Be genuine about the work and the services it supports.
Senior roles
- How would you balance next year's budget? Talk about savings, income, reserves and the risks of each.
- How do you develop your team? Mention training, qualifications and giving people stretch.