Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and reporting or technical finance functions for Ipswich Council.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to shaping Ipswich's future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, flexible working, and excellent development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government during a transformative period.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Supportive environment with potential for career advancement and additional responsibilities.
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday (Hybrid (minimum 1 day per week onsite))
About Us
Join us in shaping Ipswich's future. We are passionate about making a real difference for our residents, communities, and local economy. Our Corporate Strategy, Proud of Ipswich, sets out our ambition to champion our community and revitalise our town - and we are committed to turning that vision into reality. As part of our ambitious transformation programme, we are seeking two proactive, passionate, and positive Heads of Finance to provide strong financial leadership and expertise across the organisation. Reporting to the Assistant Director, Finance and working closely with the Director of Resources, you will lead our Financial Planning and Reporting or Technical Finance functions. These roles will also play a critical part in supporting the Council through Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), a once-in-a-generation change in how services are delivered across Suffolk.
The Roles
- Head of Finance - Financial Planning and Reporting
- You will lead the Council's financial planning and reporting function, ensuring robust, strategic, and compliant financial management.
- Leading the development and delivery of the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and annual budget.
- Acting as a principal financial advisor to Members, Committees, and senior leadership.
- Overseeing budget monitoring and management reporting.
- Line managing the Finance Manager and providing strategic direction to the team.
- Driving improvements in financial systems and processes.
- Identifying opportunities for income generation, efficiency, and cost reduction.
- Head of Finance - Technical
- You will lead the Council's technical finance function, ensuring strong governance, compliance, and financial resilience.
- Providing strategic leadership on statutory accounting, treasury management, taxation, and compliance.
- Acting as a principal financial advisor to Members, Committees, and senior leadership.
- Leading the closure of accounts and production of the Statement of Accounts.
- Managing external audit relationships.
- Line managing the Finance Manager and leading the Technical, Treasury, Insurance, Income, and Payments teams.
- Driving innovation, risk management, and compliance improvements.
- Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation and professional standards.
About You
You will be a qualified finance professional (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with:
- Strong leadership and people management capability.
- A proven track record in delivering high-quality financial services in complex organisations.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills.
- A proactive, collaborative, and solutions-focused approach.
- High levels of organisation, adaptability, and resilience.
Experience in local government or the wider public sector is highly desirable.
Why Join Us?
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer:
- Career average pension scheme
- Generous holiday and sick pay
- Subsidised parking
- Public transport discounts
- Free swimming and gym membership
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Excellent learning and development opportunities
You will also have the opportunity to work alongside committed colleagues in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
Section 151 Responsibility
For the right candidate, the role may include designation as the Council's Deputy Section 151 Officer. Where applicable, an additional allowance of £5,000 per annum will be paid.
Head of Finance in Ipswich employer: IRS Recruitment
Contact Detail:
IRS Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Ipswich
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend local events, join online forums, or even reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your insights on financial planning and reporting, and how you’ve driven improvements in past roles. Let them see your passion for finance and your proactive approach.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before interviews! Understand the Council’s financial challenges and think about how your skills can help tackle them. Prepare some questions to show your interest and knowledge about their financial strategies.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission to shape Ipswich’s future.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial planning or technical finance, and show us how your skills align with our mission to revitalise Ipswich.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We’re looking for proactive leaders! In your application, share examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. This will help us see your potential to lead our finance functions effectively.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to understand your qualifications and experiences without having to decipher complex terms.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at IRS Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with numbers but can also leverage them for strategic decision-making.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing teams and driving improvements. Think about specific situations where you’ve led a project or initiative that resulted in positive outcomes. This will resonate well with the interviewers looking for strong leadership capabilities.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the current challenges and opportunities within local government finance, particularly in relation to the Local Government Reorganisation. Being able to discuss these topics will show your commitment and understanding of the sector, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the Council’s financial strategies, challenges, and future plans. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the organisation aligns with your values and career goals.
