At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategies for transformative regeneration projects and support senior management.
- Company: Wandsworth Council, committed to innovative and inclusive community development.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension plan.
- Why this job: Shape the future of housing development while making a real impact in diverse neighbourhoods.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of housing finance, budget management, and financial leadership skills required.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to equality, diversity, and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 51540 - 72186 £ per year.
Salary Range: £51,540 – £72,186 per annum
Three years Fixed Term – Fulltime (36 hours)
Location: Min. 50% in Wandsworth Town Hall, remainder WFH
Are you looking for a senior finance leadership role where your expertise will shape financial strategies, guide senior management and support transformative regeneration projects? If this is yes for you then this is an opportunity to lead high‑level financial leadership that supports senior management and steers the future of our Housing Development and Regeneration programmes. Wandsworth council is pioneering a place-based approach to renewal that recognises the unique character of its diverse neighbourhoods while delivering coordinated change at scale.
You will be a key member of the team having overall responsibility for the strategic financial management of the council’s development stream and two large regeneration projects.
About the role
You will implement effective, efficient financial processes that ensure this area of Council activity is high‑performing and well‑managed. You will provide a value‑for‑money, customer‑focused finance function across Housing Development and Place Delivery, offering clear financial leadership. You will ensure compliance with Council performance and project management standards, taking proactive action when issues arise. You will manage budgets, resources and financial targets, setting and monitoring three‑year plans using benchmarking and strong performance management arrangements. You will develop and maintain robust financial systems and controls, delivering accurate, timely information, supporting strategic planning, promoting equality and collaboration, and maximising external funding opportunities.
Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience
- You will have a strong knowledge of housing development, finance and viability.
- Managing large, complex budgets and driving improvements in financial performance.
- Ability to use financial appraisal tools such as SDS ProVal and Sequel and advanced Excel to analyse development finances.
- Strong financial leadership within a complex organisation.
- Proven ability to interpret development data and apply economic appraisal methods effectively.
- Proven ability to offer clear financial and commercial advice to support procurement and contract decisions.
Indicative Recruitment Timeline
Closing Date: Sunday 22nd February 2026
Shortlisting Date: W/C 23rd February 2026
Interview Date: TBC
We may close this vacancy early once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Useful Information
Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, please let us know. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts may be exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such appointment to these posts will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory response to a check of police records via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
We offer a wide range of benefits designed to attract, develop, and reward our employees such as 40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), flexible working and a generous pension plan.
Development Finance Manager employer: Connected Local Government
Contact Detail:
Connected Local Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the finance and housing development sectors. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent projects and financial strategies. Show us that you understand their goals and how your skills can help achieve them. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience with large budgets and financial leadership.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your financial appraisal skills! Be ready to discuss tools like SDS ProVal and Sequel. We want to see that you can analyse development finances effectively and provide clear, actionable advice based on your findings.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the exciting regeneration projects we have lined up.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in housing development and financial management. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Development Finance Manager, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about financial leadership, so be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to guide senior management and drive improvements.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your qualifications and experiences, as we appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Connected Local Government
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Development Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in managing large budgets. Brush up on your financial appraisal tools like SDS ProVal and Sequel, and be ready to discuss how you've used advanced Excel to analyse development finances in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong financial leadership within a complex organisation. Prepare examples of how you've guided senior management in financial decision-making and how your leadership has positively impacted financial performance in previous projects.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Wandsworth Council is focused on transformative regeneration projects. Familiarise yourself with their place-based approach and be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can support their vision for diverse neighbourhoods and coordinated change.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Compliance with council performance and project management standards is crucial. Think about times when you've ensured compliance in your previous roles and be ready to explain how you would handle issues proactively if they arise in this position.