At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a transformative local authority.
- Company: Join Blackpool Council, a forward-thinking organisation driving bold regeneration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative leadership team committed to community growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Blackpool while leading a high-performing finance team.
- Qualifications: CCAB accountancy qualification and extensive local government finance experience required.
The predicted salary is between 111342 - 122494 £ per year.
Hours: 37
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Chief Officer Grade 3 Pts 11-15 £111,342 - £122,494
Closing Date: 29th June 2026 at 5pm
Location: No. 1 Bickerstaffe Square, Talbot Road, Blackpool
Are you an influential, forward-thinking finance leader ready to shape the future of a bold and ambitious local authority? Blackpool Council is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to join our Corporate Leadership Team as our Statutory Section 151 Officer, driving financial strategy and ensuring robust governance at the heart of one of the UK’s most unique and high-profile places.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead a high-performing finance function in a council embarking on major transformation—supporting both a thriving tourism economy and a growing, resilient year-round community.
About the Role
As our Director of Finance, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership for all finance, procurement, audit, risk, and exchequer services.
- Lead the authority’s statutory financial responsibilities under the Local Government Acts.
- Shape and steer the Council’s Medium-Term Financial Strategy, driving innovation and strengthening financial sustainability.
- Oversee a significant financial portfolio, including:
- £567m gross revenue budget (2026/27)
- £197m capital programme
- £100m turnover across wholly owned companies
- Offer authoritative advice to the Chief Executive, Cabinet, Corporate Leadership Team, and elected members.
- Drive transformation, champion high-quality data, and lead cultural and organisational change.
- Represent the Council at local, regional, and national levels, including professional networks and consultations with Government.
You will also directly lead a team of Heads of Service and be accountable for the performance, development and clear strategic direction of the entire Directorate.
About You
We are looking for an enthusiastic, credible, and politically astute leader who can operate confidently in a complex environment. You will bring:
- CCAB (or equivalent) accountancy qualification
- Extensive senior-level experience in local government finance, including strategic planning, revenue, capital and cash accounting.
- Strong understanding of government finance frameworks and the broader public sector landscape.
- Exceptional leadership, influencing and communication skills.
- Proven ability to navigate high-pressure environments, balancing competing demands and delivering under tight deadlines.
- A talent for innovation, partnership working, and problem-solving.
- Demonstrable experience leading transformation, workforce development, and service improvement.
This is a role for someone who wants to make a measurable difference — financially, strategically, and culturally.
Why Blackpool?
Blackpool is a place undergoing bold regeneration and reinvention. Our Council Plan (2024–2027) sets out a clear, exciting vision:
- A thriving, diverse economy
- Stronger, more resilient communities
- Investment in growth, skills, infrastructure and opportunity
We are proud of our history, committed to our future, and driven by our values: Quality | Fairness | Accountability | Compassion | Trust
What We Offer
- A high-profile leadership position with genuine influence
- Collaborative and supportive senior leadership team
- The opportunity to lead major financial strategy and transformation
- Commitment to professional development, inclusion and wellbeing
- A powerful opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for Blackpool
Apply Now and Key Dates
If you are an inspiring and experienced finance leader ready for a strategic role with real impact, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date for Applications: 29th June 2026 at 5pm
Assessment / Interview Date: 10th July 2026
Final Interview with Chief Officer 16th July 2026
Employment Committee
Help us shape Blackpool’s future — and be part of something extraordinary.
Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer) in Burnley employer: Blackpool Council
Blackpool Council is an exceptional employer, offering a high-profile leadership position as the Director of Finance that allows you to make a significant impact on the community. With a commitment to professional development and a collaborative work culture, you will lead transformative financial strategies in a vibrant location undergoing exciting regeneration. Join us to be part of a supportive team dedicated to shaping a thriving economy and resilient communities in one of the UK's most unique destinations.
