At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing finance team and shape organisational strategy.
- Company: Join Avon Fire & Rescue Service, committed to equality and community representation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days holiday, health packages, and access to great facilities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public service finance and drive continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Proven finance leadership experience and strategic thinking skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and strategic finance leader to oversee the delivery of a modern, high-performing finance function. You will lead the day-to-day management of the Finance Team, ensuring the provision of high-quality financial management, accounting, reporting, and governance services while maintaining compliance with public sector financial regulations. Working closely with senior leaders, you will play a key role in shaping organisational strategy, providing expert financial advice, and driving continuous improvement across the service. You will also support the Statutory Finance Officer in fulfilling their legal responsibilities and act as Deputy Section 112 Officer when required. As a member of the Service Leadership Team, you will contribute to the wider leadership, culture, and success of the organisation.
Some of the things you’ll be doing:
- Leading the annual Budget Setting process, highlighting key financial risks for the organisation.
- Providing high quality reports, analysis and assurance, including monthly revenue and capital budget monitoring reports, to the Service Leadership Board & Senior Leadership Team, Fire Authority and its Committees.
- Leading the production of the Annual Statement of Accounts, to the required national deadlines, for the approval of the Statutory Finance Officer and Fire Authority, managing both internal and external sources of information and ensuring presentation of accounts remains compliant with the latest statutory and regulatory requirements.
- Providing financial analysis and financial modelling to financially appraise Business Cases to support investment and planning initiatives.
- Manage, motivate, support, develop and evaluate the Finance Team ensuring individuals’ learning and progression needs are identified and met; supporting and enabling succession planning and talent management.
- Monitoring and advising on Treasury Management activities, ensuring activities are compliant with the approved Treasury Management Strategy and the Code of Practice for Treasury Management in Public Services.
27 days annual holiday (plus public holidays) rising to 31 days after 5 years, and 32 days after 10 years of service. Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme, Cycle to Work scheme, Welfare and Wellbeing services, Staff Networks, Access to Westfield Health Supplementary Healthcare package. Use of the multi-gym, sports hall, restaurant, free parking and beautiful open surroundings at our Headquarters in Portishead.
With effect from July 2023 legislation was amended to enable all Fire & Rescue Services to undertake standard DBS checks for all employees. All job roles require a standard DBS check, with certain defined roles requiring an enhanced check. These will be renewed throughout employment. Avon Fire & Rescue Service is committed to securing equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from all members of our community who are currently under-represented at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, particularly women, disabled people and members of ethnic minority communities.
Head of Finance in Portishead employer: Avonfire
Avon Fire & Rescue Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a supportive work culture where finance leaders can thrive. With generous annual leave, access to health and wellness services, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees enjoy a fulfilling work environment in the picturesque surroundings of Portishead. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a dynamic and strategic role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Portishead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their financial strategies and challenges, so you can showcase how your expertise aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a strategic thinker.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience in financial management and governance can drive improvements in their finance function. Keep it concise and impactful to grab their attention.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Portishead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance role. Highlight your experience in financial management, compliance, and team leadership. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of your strategic thinking and how you've driven improvements in previous roles. Let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use metrics and examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully led teams, managed budgets, or improved processes. We love seeing results!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avonfire
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've led budget-setting processes or managed financial risks.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role involves managing a team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership approach. Think of specific instances where you motivated your team or supported their development. Highlight how you’ve contributed to a positive organisational culture in previous positions.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with public sector financial regulations and compliance requirements. Be ready to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance in your previous roles, especially regarding treasury management and statutory reporting.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
You’ll be working closely with senior leaders, so think about how you can contribute to organisational strategy. Prepare to discuss how you’ve provided financial advice that shaped business decisions and drove continuous improvement in your past experiences.
