At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and support strategic decision-making for the Council.
- Company: Join a growing, ambitious Council in Horley, shaping the town's future.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, free parking, and generous leave.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community governance and financial transparency.
- Qualifications: Strong financial management skills and experience in public service leadership.
The predicted salary is between 51928 - 54143 £ per year.
Location: Horley, Surrey, RH6 7HZ
Salary: £51,928 - £54,143 per annum (SCP 39-41) plus Local Government Benefits: Pension Scheme, free parking onsite, support for development, generous annual leave
Contract: Permanent, 37 hours per week with some weekends and evenings for meetings
Horley is a growing, ambitious and welcoming town and the Council plays a central role in shaping its future. As Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Responsible Financial Officer, you will support the Chief Executive Officer in providing steady, confident leadership across the organisation, helping ensure the Council remains resilient, transparent and well-governed as Horley continues to expand.
This is a senior role with statutory responsibility for the Council's financial management. You will lead budgeting, reporting and compliance, ensuring public funds are managed responsibly and that councillors receive clear, well-reasoned financial advice. Alongside this, you will support committee business, strengthen governance processes, and help modernise systems and ways of working. You will play a key part in delivering the Town Plan and shaping the next strategic cycle, contributing insight and direction as the Council prepares for future organisational change, including unitarisation in 2027.
Working within a small, committed officer team, you will help maintain a cohesive, high-performing environment that reflects Horley's values of integrity, collaboration and community impact.
About You
- A steady, organised professional who brings clarity, calm judgement and a strong sense of public service
- Confident managing financial information, explaining it clearly, and supporting councillors with balanced, evidence-based advice
- Comfortable working in a small, committed team, building trust quickly and contributing positively to shared goals
- Able to balance strategic thinking with practical delivery, keeping work moving and maintaining high standards
- A clear communicator who can prepare concise reports, present information well and engage constructively with partners and residents
- Someone who handles pressure, deadlines and sensitive matters with professionalism, integrity and resilience
Above all you are motivated by community impact, committed to good governance, and confident representing the Council when required.
Closing date: 12pm, Wednesday 7th October 2026
Interviews: Interviews will take place in person on 15th and 16th October (between 2pm and 4pm).
Deputy CEO in Horley employer: Ad Warrior Ltd
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that values transparency and civic engagement. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, including support for obtaining the CiLCA qualification, and enjoy a meaningful role in shaping local governance and community events in the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy CEO in Horley
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Ad Warrior Ltd, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Ad Warrior Ltd and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy CEO in Horley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ad Warrior Ltd and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ad Warrior Ltd
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ad Warrior Ltd, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ad Warrior Ltd.
