At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and implement innovative systems for Nottingham City Council.
- Company: Join a vibrant council committed to meaningful change and financial excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a dynamic city with ambitious goals.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance operations and organisational change, ideally in a democratic setting.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with senior leaders and drive best practices.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
Nottingham is a bold, vibrant, and exciting Core City at the heart of the UK, alive with potential and ambition. Nottingham City Council has faced up to significant challenges, and we’re approaching the future with courage, energy, and a clear plan to deliver meaningful change for our residents. Underpinning our rapid progress is a comprehensive transformation of our financial systems and governance. This has already delivered significant progress achieving the best financial performance of a UK Core City with an expected General Fund underspend of approximately £24m in 2025/26 and setting a marginal surplus general fund budget for 2026/27 including a 3.5 per cent tax rise from April - the first time in 18 years it has increased it by less than the maximum.
Now we’re looking for a key individual who will continue building on our achievements to date, and make us an exemplar of financial practice. As our new Strategic Director of Finance Operations, you will oversee the practical implementation and management of our new approach. Skilled at designing and embedding streamlined and reliable financial systems and processes, you’ll bring knowledge and practical experience of delivering high-quality finance operations and organisational change ideally gained in a democratic context.
You will hold Deputy S151 Officer status and will work closely with Service Directors, their senior teams and members to ensure best practice in financial planning, monitoring and risk mitigation in the design and delivery of services.
Closing date: Midnight Friday 8 May 2026
Strategic Director of Finance Operations employer: Faerfield Limited
Contact Detail:
Faerfield Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Director of Finance Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to Nottingham City Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council's recent financial achievements. Show us you know your stuff and how you can contribute to their ongoing success as the Strategic Director of Finance Operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to hear about your past successes in finance operations and how you can help Nottingham become an exemplar of financial practice.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in Nottingham.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Director of Finance Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the council's goals. Dive into the job description and highlight how your experience aligns with their needs. We want to see that you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Personalise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that relate to the Strategic Director of Finance Operations role. Show us why you’re the one we need to keep pushing Nottingham forward.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point – it shows us you can communicate effectively!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be good to go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Faerfield Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Strategic Director of Finance Operations, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and recent performance data of Nottingham City Council. Being able to discuss the expected General Fund underspend and budget strategies will show that you’re not just familiar with the role but also genuinely interested in their financial health.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Skills
This role involves overseeing organisational change, so be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully implemented financial systems or processes in the past. Highlight your experience in a democratic context, as this will resonate well with the council's objectives.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
You’ll be working closely with Service Directors and senior teams, so it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to engage and collaborate with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you’ve built relationships and ensured best practices in financial planning and risk mitigation in previous roles.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about Nottingham City Council’s future financial strategies and challenges. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in contributing to their mission of delivering meaningful change for residents.