At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and governance, driving strategic financial management and organisational confidence.
- Company: Basildon Council, committed to strong financial leadership and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, monthly car allowance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Significant development opportunities for aspiring Section 151 Officers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local government finance and shape the future of Basildon.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance leadership and ability to navigate political environments.
The predicted salary is between 121526 - 121526 £ per year.
Closing date: Friday 2nd October, 12pm midday
Location: Basildon, Essex
Salary: up to £121,526 + a monthly car allowance of £200 per month + fringe allowance of £753 per annum
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description
Turn financial grip into organisational confidence. This is an opportunity for a finance leader who wants more than stewardship of the numbers. Basildon needs strong core financial management, a deliverable Medium-Term Financial Strategy and a savings programme that is understood and owned across the organisation. It needs clear information, effective financial planning and a finance service that enables senior leaders to make sound decisions at pace. It also needs someone who can see the wider opportunity.
As Assistant Director Finance & Governance and Deputy Section 151 Officer, you will lead a broad and influential portfolio including finance, revenues and benefits, procurement, audit, risk, insurance and corporate fraud. You will support income generation, value for money and delivery of Council priorities, while helping to strengthen governance and organisational assurance. You will be a key partner to the Executive Director of Resources and Governance, giving them the capacity to maintain a broader corporate and strategic focus while you build grip, coordination and confidence across the finance function.
The brief combines the essentials of excellent local government finance with questions that are anything but routine. How does Basildon deliver its savings commitments without losing sight of its ambitions? How can its commercial activity, procurement and partnerships create greater value? How can the Council strengthen its long-term financial resilience? And how do we build a finance team that finishes this period stronger than it began?
You will also lead the continued development of the shared Revenues and Benefits service with Brentwood and explore wider partnership opportunities.
We are open to experienced Deputy Section 151 Officers and ambitious senior finance leaders ready for greater corporate exposure. You will need a strong track record of delivery, the confidence to operate in a political environment and the ability to combine commercial judgement with the discipline and public purpose of local government finance.
For an aspiring Section 151 Officer, the development opportunity is significant. You will work closely with the Council's senior statutory leadership, gain exposure to major organisational change and play a leading role in strengthening the Council's financial sustainability and organisational performance.
This is a role from which you can demonstrate not only that you can manage finance, but that you can use it to make an entire organisation better. Strengthen the foundations. Create the capacity. Shape the future.
Assistant Director Finance & Governance and Deputy Section 151 Officer (Full Time) in Basildon employer: Basildon Borough Council
BASILDON BOROUGH COUNCIL is an excellent employer for those passionate about the arts, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and collaboration. With opportunities for professional growth and development in a supportive environment, employees can thrive while contributing to exciting productions in the heart of Basildon. The council's commitment to community engagement and diverse events makes it a rewarding place to work for theatre enthusiasts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director Finance & Governance and Deputy Section 151 Officer (Full Time) in Basildon
✨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 Basildon Borough Council, 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 Basildon Borough Council 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 Assistant Director Finance & Governance and Deputy Section 151 Officer (Full Time) in Basildon
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 Basildon Borough Council 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 Basildon Borough Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Basildon Borough Council, 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 Basildon Borough Council.
