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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for Blackpool Council's ambitious transformation.
- Company: Join Blackpool Council, a forward-thinking local authority with a bold vision.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive leadership team committed to community growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Blackpool while driving innovation and sustainability.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualification and extensive experience in local government finance required.
The predicted salary is between 111342 - 122494 £ per year.
Chief Officer Grade 3 £111,342 - £122,494 pay award pending
Location: No. 1 Bickerstaffe Square, 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
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 a dynamic, credible, 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. As Director of Finance, you will play a pivotal role in building the future of our town and supporting the communities who live, work and invest here.
What We Offer
- A high-profile leadership position with genuine influence
- Collaborative, 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
If you are an inspiring and experienced finance leader ready for a strategic role with real impact, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and covering letter demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria to recruitment@blackpool.gov.uk. Help us shape Blackpool’s future — and be part of something extraordinary.
Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer) NEW Blackpool Council Posted yesterday Blackpool and [...] employer: Blackpool
Contact Detail:
Blackpool Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer) NEW Blackpool Council Posted yesterday Blackpool and [...]
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector, especially those linked to local government. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Blackpool Council’s recent initiatives and challenges. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their unique context and how your experience can drive their financial strategy forward.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for the role and how you plan to lead transformation within the council. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your leadership style and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer) NEW Blackpool Council Posted yesterday Blackpool and [...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Finance. Highlight your relevant experience in local government finance and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with our vision for Blackpool!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in financial strategy and transformation, and let us know how you can contribute to our ambitious plans.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a key player in our Corporate Leadership Team, we need to see your leadership style. In your application, mention your experience leading teams and driving change. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and influence others!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our council there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackpool
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Finance, you’ll need to be on top of the financial details. Brush up on key figures related to Blackpool Council’s budget and financial strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with managing large budgets and driving financial sustainability.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires exceptional leadership skills. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead teams through transformation and change. Think about specific instances where you’ve influenced others and driven results in high-pressure environments.
✨Understand the Local Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Blackpool’s unique challenges and opportunities. Research recent developments in local government finance and how they impact the community. This will show your commitment and understanding of the role's context.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions around strategic planning and innovation. Be ready to discuss your vision for the Council’s Medium-Term Financial Strategy and how you would approach driving transformation. Articulate your ideas clearly and confidently to demonstrate your forward-thinking mindset.