Interim Head of Finance in Northallerton

6 months contract with a local authority

Job Purpose

• To provide strategic and operational leadership of the Combined Authorityâ s finance function, ensuring effective financial management, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement as the organisation evolves following devolution. The role will play a key part in driving financial transformation, strengthening reporting frameworks, and supporting senior leadership in decision-making.

Key Duties/Accountabilities

• Lead the production of quarterly budget monitoring reports and treasury management updates for Leadership Team, the Combined Authority, and Audit Committee.
• Oversee and manage the year-end accounts process and external audit for 2025/26, ensuring compliance with all statutory requirements.
• Lead the development and delivery of the 2026/27 budgeting process.
• Provide high-quality financial advice, planning support, and robust reporting across the Combined Authority.
• Drive the financial strategy and ensure strong financial performance management and governance.
• Support and oversee service-level agreements for finance-related services and contribute to the development of a unified internal finance function.

Essential Experience Required

• Fully qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience.
• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role, ideally within the public sector or a complex organisation.
• Strong technical accounting expertise, including year-end accounts preparation and audit management.

Essential Qualifications Required

• Professional accounting qualification (CCAB â e.g. ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ACA â or equivalent).
• Evidence of continued professional development.

Additional information to note

• Working hours: 37 hours per week
• 6 months, with opportunity to apply for a permanent role when advertised.
• We work on bi-weekly schedule.

The role closes soon, apply ASAP.