At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and budget development for housing services at Bristol City Council.
- Company: Join Bristol City Council, a values-driven organisation committed to community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, generous leave, and a solid pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a vibrant city while making a real difference.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified with extensive experience in housing finance and leadership.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: City Hall College Green City Centre Bristol BS1 5TR
Contract Type: Full time, Permanent
Closing date: Sunday 5th July 2026
About the role
This senior leadership position is at the heart of Bristol City Council, responsible for leading the Council’s financial management, budgetary development, and financial oversight of housing services. Directly report to the Director of Finance and collaborate with finance Heads of Service and Housing Directorate. Develop and execute the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 30‑year plan and oversee a capital programme of £114.3 million in 2026/27. Provide high‑quality financial advice, robust governance and effective financial control across housing services. Champion excellent financial management, embed accountability and value for money, and build strong relationships with senior leaders. Represent Bristol locally, regionally and nationally to promote best practice in public‑sector financial management.
About you
- Fully CCAB qualified (or equivalent) with significant post qualification experience.
- Strong understanding and experience in a housing setting, including Housing Revenue Account 30‑year business planning and a large housing capital programme.
- Senior‑level experience in providing financial leadership, assurance and strategic influence within a large, complex organisation.
- Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems, exercise judgement and balance financial discipline with innovation.
- Proven track record of working collaboratively with senior stakeholders, including elected members, auditors and external partners.
- Experience leading teams through change, setting high professional standards, and building inclusive, high‑performing cultures.
Why Bristol City Council?
- Work at senior level on issues that genuinely matter to people and communities.
- Collaborative, values‑driven culture committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Hybrid working approach with flexibility balanced against business need.
- Opportunity to shape the future of finance in one of the UK’s most dynamic cities.
- Generous annual leave entitlement and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
At Bristol City Council, we value having a workforce as diverse as the city we serve and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Appointments will be made on merit.
Head of Finance – Housing and Housing Revenue Account in England employer: Bristol City Council
Bristol City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a senior leadership role that allows you to make a tangible impact on the financial management of housing services in one of the UK's most vibrant cities. With a collaborative and values-driven culture, we prioritise equality, diversity, and inclusion while providing generous benefits such as a hybrid working model, substantial annual leave, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme. Join us to shape the future of finance and contribute to meaningful community outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance – Housing and Housing Revenue Account in England
✨Tap into Campus Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance – Housing and Housing Revenue Account in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Bristol City Council.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Bristol City Council's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol City Council
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Bristol City Council.
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✨Show Your Passion for Finance
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✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Bristol City Council employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
