At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and provide insights to support decision-making across the organisation.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Harrow, a key player in local government.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for leadership and growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of public finance and drive transformation in local services.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified with extensive senior-level finance experience in public sector.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 € per year.
The London Borough of Harrow is appointing five Heads of Finance to provide strong, visible financial leadership across its Directorates. These roles sit at the heart of the organisation, acting as strategic partners to Directors, the Corporate Leadership Team and elected Members, and supporting effective decision‑making, financial resilience and value for money across significant revenue and capital budgets.
Working closely with their allocated Directorates, the Heads of Finance provide clear, practical financial and commercial insight, positively challenge assumptions, and ensure high standards of governance and assurance in line with the Council’s Section 151 responsibilities. Beyond stewardship, the roles support transformation and continuous improvement, building financial capability, leading high‑performing teams and enabling Directorates to deliver sustainable, high‑quality services aligned to Harrow’s long‑term ambitions.
About You
- CCAB qualified (ideally CIPFA) with a strong commitment to continuing professional development.
- Extensive senior‑level finance experience within a large, complex public‑sector organisation, ideally local government.
- In-depth knowledge of public‑sector finance, accounting standards, funding arrangements and the legislative environment.
- Proven ability to provide strategic, long‑term financial advice and constructive challenge at senior and political level.
- Strong experience of the annual financial cycle, budget planning and financial monitoring.
- Advanced financial and technical skills, including business cases, financial modelling, options appraisal, capital investment appraisal and risk analysis.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to Members and senior officers.
- Demonstrable track record of driving service improvement, productivity, cost reduction and continuous improvement.
- Strong leadership, relationship‑building and collaboration skills, with experience of leading complex projects and supporting organisational transformation.
- Politically astute, with advanced Microsoft Office skills and up‑to‑date knowledge of public‑sector accounting best practice.
If you would like to have an informal discussion, please email.
For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/ Selection Criteria.
Head of Finance employer: Harrow Council
The London Borough of Harrow is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where financial leaders can thrive and make a significant impact on the community. With a strong commitment to professional development, collaborative culture, and opportunities for transformation, employees are empowered to drive service improvement and contribute to the Council's long-term ambitions. Located in a vibrant area, the roles provide a unique chance to engage with diverse stakeholders while ensuring high standards of governance and financial resilience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of public-sector finance and current trends. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to financial leadership to showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of Finance role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your CCAB qualifications and relevant experience in public-sector finance. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Finance!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your strategic financial advice and how you've driven service improvements in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Head of Finance, you'll be leading teams and influencing decisions. Make sure to include examples of your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed complex projects in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harrow Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in public-sector finance. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive decision-making in previous roles. This shows you can provide the strategic insight they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in complex projects. Think about times when you led a team through transformation or improved service delivery. This will help you illustrate your ability to build high-performing teams and foster collaboration.
✨Communicate Clearly
You’ll need to present complex financial information to various stakeholders. Practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms. Use real-life examples from your past roles to show how you’ve effectively communicated with senior officers and Members.
✨Be Politically Astute
Understand the political landscape of local government and be prepared to discuss how you’ve navigated it in the past. Share experiences where your political awareness helped you influence decisions or manage stakeholder relationships effectively.
