At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and accountancy, driving service modernisation and excellence.
- Company: Calderdale Council, a forward-thinking organisation committed to innovation and transformation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, hybrid arrangements, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to challenging inequality and promoting diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial leadership and community service improvement.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strategic leadership experience in finance.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Calderdale is an ambitious, forward looking Council with a strong track record of innovation and transformation. As we continue to modernise services, strengthen financial resilience, and deliver on our digital ambitions, we are seeking a dynamic Assistant Director – Financial Management and Accountancy to play a pivotal corporate leadership role.
As Deputy S151 Officer, you will work alongside our Director of Resources and Transformation (S151 Officer) to create a finance team that will take the Council to the next level, strengthening senior financial leadership and delivering actions from the CIPFA Financial Management and Resilience Review (2025). You will provide strategic leadership across financial management, accountancy, procurement and business rates, building strong relationships to drive service modernisation, digital improvement and a culture of financial management excellence. You will inspire teams and engage stakeholders to improve customer experience and performance, leading delivery of the medium-term financial strategy, capital and investment strategies, and overseeing all statutory financial reporting to ensure the Council’s financial affairs are well-governed, compliant and sustainable.
Qualifications: Applications will be considered from fully qualified accountants, a member of a recognised CCAB professional accountancy body who can demonstrate relevant skills and experience for the post. We welcome applications from experienced financial leaders with a Level 7 Leadership and Management qualification (or equivalent demonstrated experience), proven successful track record of strategic leadership and achievements in finance and accountancy service in complex environments, and a track record of driving service improvement and change management.
What we offer: Calderdale is a values driven employer, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We offer flexible working, hybrid arrangements, and are committed to creating an inclusive organisation where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all and offer a variety of flexible working / job share opportunities. Calderdale Council embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from people who share our commitment to challenging inequality and promoting diversity across Calderdale, particularly from communities that are currently under-represented in our organisation.
Contact: For an informal conversation about this role, please contact: Becky McIntyre, Director of Resources and Transformation becky.mcintyre@calderdale.gov.uk
Assessment: Thursday, 30th April 2026 Interview Friday, 1st May 2026 Recruitment Process: As part of our fair recruitment process, we ask that all applications are written by the candidate and AI use is limited unless required as a reasonable adjustment for a disability. Content should be truthful, accurate, evidence-based and not embellished – see guidance.
Assistant Director (Financial Management and Accountancy) in Halifax employer: Calderdale Council
Calderdale Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation, inclusivity, and employee development. With a commitment to flexible working arrangements and a diverse workforce, we foster a supportive environment where financial professionals can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the community. Join us in shaping the future of local governance while enjoying opportunities for personal and professional growth in a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director (Financial Management and Accountancy) in Halifax
✨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 those interviews! Research Calderdale Council and understand their financial strategies and challenges. This will help you showcase how your experience aligns with their goals and demonstrate your passion for driving service improvement.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director (Financial Management and Accountancy) in Halifax
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, be yourself! We want to see your personality shine through. Share your genuine experiences and how they relate to the role of Assistant Director – Financial Management and Accountancy.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for this specific role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. We’re looking for someone who can drive service improvement and lead financial management, so show us how you fit the bill!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; tell us about your successes! Use concrete examples to demonstrate your strategic leadership and achievements in finance. We love seeing how you've made a difference in previous roles.
Follow the Guidelines:Remember to keep your application truthful and evidence-based. We appreciate honesty and clarity, so avoid embellishing your experiences. And don’t forget, apply through our website to ensure your application gets to us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Calderdale Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Assistant Director in Financial Management and Accountancy, you’ll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial principles. Brush up on key financial metrics, recent trends in public sector finance, and the specifics of Calderdale's financial strategies. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your expertise.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare to share specific examples of your strategic leadership in finance. Think about times when you’ve driven service improvement or managed change effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your achievements.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Building strong relationships is crucial for this role. Be ready to discuss how you’ve engaged with various stakeholders in the past. Consider preparing a few anecdotes that illustrate your ability to inspire teams and improve customer experience through collaboration.
✨Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
Calderdale values diversity, so be prepared to talk about how you’ve promoted inclusivity in your previous roles. Reflect on your experiences working with diverse teams and how you’ve contributed to creating an inclusive environment. This will resonate well with their organisational values.
