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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a Central Government department.
- Company: Join a transformative Central Government department in Cardiff.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model with 2 days in the office and 3 days WFH.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public finance while shaping strategic direction.
- Qualifications: Must be a fully qualified accountant with senior financial leadership experience.
- Other info: This role is inside IR35; perfect for those seeking meaningful public sector work.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
We have an excellent contract opportunity for a talented and driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at a Central Government department.
As a full member of the main board, your remit will be to provide strategic leadership and management of all financial, commercial, and economic activities. The department is going through a period of significant transformation and the incumbent will ensure robust financial stewardship, effective governance, and value-for-money decision-making, enabling the department to achieve its key objectives.
Key responsibilities of the role:
- Leading the Finance and Commercial functions
- Providing strategic financial guidance to the CEO and Executive Team
- Driving continuous improvement in financial operations, systems, and service delivery.
- Champion value-for-money and evidence-based decision-making in all major initiatives.
Essential experience
- Senior financial leadership gained in a complex organisation. Some of your experience will have been gained in the public sector
- Shaping and delivering strategic direction
- Proven track record in financial management and delivering value for money
- Deep knowledge of financial control, reporting, and performance management
- Strong understanding of Managing Public Money and government functional standards
- Strong, visible, and inclusive leadership at board level
- Strategic, analytical, and critical thinking
- Leading multi-disciplinary teams through change
- Building and managing diverse stakeholder relationships
- Clear communication of complex financial concepts
Essential Qualifications
- Fully qualified accountant (CCAB, CIMA, or equivalent)
This contract is inside scope of IR35 and offered on a hybrid working model (2 days office / 3 days WFH).
If you require further information, please contact
Attenti Consulting is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
Chief Financial Officer, CFO - Central Government in Cardiff employer: Attenti
Contact Detail:
Attenti Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer, CFO - Central Government in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the public sector, especially those who have experience in financial leadership roles. Attend industry events or webinars where you can connect with current CFOs or finance directors to gain insights and potentially get referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and governance frameworks that apply to central government departments. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its responsibilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading financial transformations and how you've driven value-for-money initiatives in previous roles. Be ready to provide specific examples that showcase your strategic thinking and ability to manage change effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the department's current financial challenges and objectives. Tailor your discussions during interviews to show how your skills and experiences align with their needs, demonstrating that you are not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer, CFO - Central Government in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your senior financial leadership experience, particularly in complex organisations and the public sector. Emphasise your achievements in financial management and value-for-money initiatives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your strategic financial guidance has positively impacted previous organisations. Mention specific examples of leading multi-disciplinary teams through change and your approach to building stakeholder relationships.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as being a fully qualified accountant (CCAB, CIMA, or equivalent). This is essential for the role, so ensure it stands out in your application.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Demonstrate your strong, visible, and inclusive leadership style in your application. Provide examples of how you have communicated complex financial concepts effectively at board level.
How to prepare for a job interview at Attenti
✨Demonstrate Strategic Vision
As a CFO, you'll need to showcase your ability to provide strategic financial guidance. Prepare examples of how you've shaped and delivered strategic direction in previous roles, particularly in complex organisations.
✨Highlight Public Sector Experience
Since the role requires experience in the public sector, be ready to discuss your relevant background. Share specific instances where you navigated financial management within government frameworks or similar environments.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Strong leadership is crucial for this position. Prepare to talk about your experience leading multi-disciplinary teams through change, and how you foster inclusive environments that encourage diverse perspectives.
✨Communicate Financial Concepts Clearly
You'll need to convey complex financial concepts to various stakeholders. Practice explaining intricate financial information in simple terms, ensuring clarity and understanding for all audiences.
