rE sPOnsiBLE f inanCE OffiCEr

Q. What does your job at the Council involve?

My role is the Responsible Finance Officer. It is my job to administer the Council’s financial affairs in accordance with all Acts, Regulations and proper practices, determine on behalf of the Council its accounting records and accounting control systems, ensure those systems are observed, maintain the accounting records of the Council, checking they are up to date in accordance with proper practices, assist the Council to secure economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the use of its resources and produce financial management information for the Council. In other words, anything to do with finance!

Q. What are the most enjoyable aspects of working for the Council?

I took a job in Local Council as I believe we are at the level where we can make a real difference in people’s day-to-day lives, and of course, my colleagues at the Council are a great team and have made me feel welcome. I feel like I’ve worked here forever!

Q. Away from work what are your hobbies/ interests?

My main hobby is cooking and baking - I am definitely a feeder, much to the delight of my friends and family. I like to experiment with food to get the right flavours and test them out at dinner parties. I have two dogs so I’m always out walking no matter what the weather is, rain or shine. I love socialising and spend a lot of time with friends and family, either just for a quiet cuppa, a few drinks on a Friday night, or going on holiday. I am also a horror fan. At weekends I will often be sat reading a horror novel or watching a horror movie.

Q. What are your favourite aspects of Keynsham?

Not living in Keynsham, I didn’t know the area very well. In the short time I’ve been working at the Town Council I’ve noticed a real sense of community. People like to get involved and assist others. I’ve also been learning about the history of Keynsham from our Assistant Town Clerk, which is fascinating, and of course, the High Street. Living in a smaller village with few shops, it’s nice to be able to go for a walk on my lunch break and be able to get practically everything I need.