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- Tasks: Support financial planning, budgeting, and analysis for a local authority in Essex.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority committed to efficient public service delivery.
- Benefits: Enjoy a temporary role with competitive pay and the chance to make an impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives financial efficiency and supports community projects.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualification or equivalent experience in finance, preferably in local government.
- Other info: This is a temporary 6-month contract with an ASAP start date.
Contract: Temporary, 6 Months
Location: Essex
Salary: Dependent on Experience. Start date: ASAP
Harper Recruitment are looking for an experienced Finance Business Partner to join a local authority in Essex on a temporary basis.
Duties will include:
- Deliver financial and management accounting support, including budget setting, financial monitoring, forecasting, year-end accounts, and long-term planning.
- Advise service managers on financial procedures, processes, and systems.
- Provide financial insight and assess the implications of management reports submitted for senior or elected member consideration.
- Partner with service teams to conduct financial reviews and analysis, ensuring optimal use of resources and assisting in the preparation of funding bids or claims.
- Challenge existing budgets and assumptions to drive efficiencies and improve service delivery.
- Support corporate and service-led projects, working groups, and initiatives with clear financial advice and guidance.
- Promote a value-for-money culture by equipping budget holders with financial insight, benchmarking data, and cost analysis.
- Ensure accurate and timely completion of statutory financial returns and data submissions, including those related to capital and revenue.
- Contribute to cross-departmental initiatives and maintain an up-to-date understanding of service-specific financial requirements and developments.
Skills/Experience required:
- Full CCAB (or equivalent qualification) or extensive experience.
- Previous experience in a finance business partner role within local government or a similar public sector environment.
- Strong understanding of local authority financial frameworks, including CIPFA Codes of Practice and regulatory requirements.
- Skilled at interpreting financial legislation, changes in accounting standards, and implementing best practices.
- Able to meet tight deadlines and manage conflicting priorities effectively.
- Strong working knowledge of financial systems and tools, with excellent Excel and financial modelling skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, able to build effective relationships with senior stakeholders, budget holders, and cross-functional teams.
Apply NOW to avoid disappointment!
Unfortunately, we are unable to contact all candidates due to the large volume of applications we receive. If you have not heard from a consultant within the next three days, please assume that you have not been successful on this occasion. Please do not hesitate to apply for other suitable roles in the future.
Finance Business Partner employer: Harper Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Harper Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the local government finance sector. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges they face. This can give you insights that will be valuable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest CIPFA Codes of Practice and any recent changes in financial legislation. Being able to discuss these topics knowledgeably in an interview will demonstrate your commitment to staying updated and your understanding of the local authority financial framework.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully partnered with service teams to improve financial processes or drive efficiencies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific local authority you'll be working with. Understanding their current financial challenges and priorities can help you tailor your discussions and show how your skills can directly benefit them.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Business Partner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills for the Finance Business Partner position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous experience in finance business partnering, particularly within local government or similar public sector environments. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise in financial management and analysis.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to showcase your strong understanding of local authority financial frameworks and your proficiency in financial systems and tools. Mention your Excel and financial modelling skills explicitly, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter that not only summarises your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role. Discuss how you can contribute to promoting a value-for-money culture and supporting service-led projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Business Partner, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be prepared to discuss how you've used them in previous roles. This will show your understanding of financial principles and your ability to apply them effectively.
✨Understand Local Authority Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with local authority financial frameworks, including CIPFA Codes of Practice. Being able to discuss these frameworks during the interview will highlight your relevant experience and show that you’re well-prepared for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you’ve had to challenge budgets or provide financial insight to service managers. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Since the role involves working closely with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams, be ready to discuss how you build relationships and communicate financial information effectively. Share specific examples of how you’ve collaborated with others to achieve financial goals.
