At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and strategic initiatives for Scotland's fire and rescue services.
- Company: Join the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety and emergency response.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £123,661 plus generous benefits and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of public service while making communities safer and driving impactful change.
- Qualifications: Degree and CCAB accounting qualification required; leadership experience in finance is essential.
- Other info: This is a 9-12 month temporary contract with a closing date for applications on 19th March.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Interim Director of Finance and Contractual Services
£123,661, plus generous benefits
9-12 month temporary contract
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters, Cambuslang/Hybrid working
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is Scotland’s national fire and rescue service, committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its people. With over 7,500 dedicated employees, including firefighters, control teams, and support staff, SFRS operates 356 stations across Scotland, providing 24/7 emergency response services. Beyond emergency responses, SFRS actively engages in community education and fire prevention efforts, working tirelessly to protect and serve communities throughout Scotland.
The role
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is seeking an exceptional leader for the interim role of Director of Finance and Contractual Services. Reporting into the Deputy Chief Officer of Corporate Services, this role is based at the National Headquarters in Cambuslang, and this pivotal 12-month appointment will support a structural review within Corporate Services. The successful candidate will drive the financial, procurement, asset management, and digital and technology strategies, ensuring the SFRS continues to deliver best value and maintain its reputation as a high-performing, financially sound organisation. With a focus on robust financial management, strategic leadership, and delivering on the SFRS Strategy, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of Scotland’s fire and rescue services and contribute to making communities safer.
The person
The ideal candidate will hold a degree (or equivalent experience) and a CCAB accounting qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, CA), with proven senior leadership in financial management and a strong grasp of public sector governance. They will demonstrate expertise in leading change programmes, advising senior stakeholders, and possess excellent communication and relationship-building skills. Experience in procurement, asset management, or IT, along with a relevant master’s degree, is desirable. The candidate will be a strategic thinker and collaborative leader, committed to public service values and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
If you are an inspiring finance and service leader who has the ability and drive to lead a dynamic team through change, with the vision and drive to shape the future of Scotland’s fire and rescue services, we’d love to hear from you and encourage your application.
You can contact Lauryn Pringle or Debbie Shields at Aspen People for a confidential discussion about the role on 0141 212 7555.
More information can be found within the dedicated Recruitment Pack below:
Closing date for applications: 19th March
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter (as one document) via the apply button.
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Interim Director of Finance and Contractual Services employer: Aspen People
Contact Detail:
Aspen People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Director of Finance and Contractual Services
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to community safety and public service will help you align your leadership style and vision with their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public sector, especially those with experience in finance and governance. Engaging with current or former employees of SFRS can provide valuable insights into the organizational culture and expectations for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led change programs in previous roles. Highlighting your strategic thinking and collaborative leadership skills will demonstrate your capability to drive the financial and operational strategies at SFRS.
✨Tip Number 4
Research recent developments in public sector finance and procurement, particularly within emergency services. Being knowledgeable about current trends and challenges will show your commitment to continuous improvement and your readiness to contribute effectively from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Director of Finance and Contractual Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Interim Director of Finance and Contractual Services. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should highlight your relevant experience in financial management and leadership. Make sure to address how your skills align with the SFRS's mission and values, and demonstrate your commitment to public service.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects your qualifications, particularly your CCAB accounting qualification and any relevant experience in procurement or asset management. Use specific examples to showcase your achievements and leadership capabilities.
Follow Application Instructions: When submitting your application, combine your CV and cover letter into one document as specified. Double-check that you have included all necessary information and that your application is free from errors before hitting the submit button.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspen People
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles in financial management. Highlight specific examples where you successfully led change programs or advised senior stakeholders, as this aligns with the expectations for the role.
✨Demonstrate Public Sector Knowledge
Familiarize yourself with public sector governance and the unique challenges faced by organizations like the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. This will show your understanding of the environment you'll be working in and your commitment to public service values.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication skills are crucial for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex financial strategies or procurement processes, to demonstrate your ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Have insightful questions ready about the SFRS's current financial strategies and future goals. This not only shows your interest in the position but also your strategic thinking and desire to contribute to the organization's mission.