Lesley Black, Business Support Accountant, Corporate Services
Lesley is a member of the SPSA Finance team who help to ensure that appropriate financial management and controls are in place to support business performance targets
Lesley said, "It is my job to contribute towards organisational effectiveness through the provision of financial management advice.
"Each member of the Finance team is responsible for providing financial information and advice to different parts of SPSA. Where my colleagues are responsible for areas such as the Scottish Police College, SCDEA, ICT, Corporate Services and Criminal Justice, I am aligned to the Forensic Services business area. Although this can mean that we are often working on different tasks, it is crucial that we work together as a team to ensure financial consistency and share areas of best practice.
"My role involves working in partnership with the senior managers within Forensic Services to prepare the annual revenue and capital budgets for the business area; project the Forensic Services five year forecast plan; and assist in the preparation of statutory and board accounts.
"There is no such thing as a ‘typical day' for me as my duties can vary according to our finance timetable. For example, at the end of each month I prepare the Forensic Services Management Accounts and meet with the Head of Operations and senior managers at each of the four main Forensic Services locations to discuss budgets, forecasts and assist them in any finance related issues relating to their operational spend.
"One of the projects I am involved in at the moment is the new forensic laboratory at Dundee. It is my responsibility to ensure the Board and Scottish Government is kept up to date with the developer costs and forecast budgets.
"I really enjoy the variety of my role and have the privilege of working with some of the most talented people in Scotland at solving complex crimes. I have every admiration for the courage and professionalism they give to their difficult roles and I am proud to be able to support the business area."