Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and ensure value for money across council services.
- Company: Join a dynamic council team in Leeds City Centre focused on innovative financial management.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, permanent contract, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a forward-thinking team that values innovation and excellence in public service.
- Qualifications: Must be a fully qualified accountant with senior finance experience in large organizations.
- Other info: Collaborate with senior management to drive strategic budgeting and fiscal responsibility.
The predicted salary is between 68033 - 74631 £ per year.
Salary: £68,033 – £74,631
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Leeds City Centre
As the Head of Finance (Strategic), you’ll thrive on delivering real change across the council, ensuring value for money across the services we provide.
You’ll be an influential leader, responsible for both the determination of the council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy and the production of our capital programme and annual revenue budget.
In addition, you will also be responsible for coordinating the production of monthly (capital and revenue) budget monitoring reports.
This role is about more than meeting statutory service standards. You will support the teams you lead to exceed those standards and continually improve the services we deliver through implementing innovative and cost-effective strategies.
About you
You must be a fully qualified accountant, holding a relevant CCAB or equivalent qualification, and have experience of working at a senior level within a finance setting.
As a Head of Finance you will also bring to the role:
- The provision of timely and accurate financial management information and advice to the Senior Management Team and other budget holders within the Directorate and to the council’s Section 151 Officer.
- Support the role of the council’s Section 151 Officer by ensuring at all times that the integrity of the council’s accounts and financial systems and procedures are maintained and controlled.
- Adhere to the council’s Code of Practice for Heads of Finance.
- Be professionally and managerially responsible for the leadership and management of a team providing the strategic Financial Management function.
- Ability to manage competing priorities whilst delivering on a broad range of projects, adapting to changing circumstances and priorities, and being sensitive to political issues.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and innovative qualified accountant looking for their next career move to join a dynamic and forward thinking Finance Team.
To be suitable for the role you need to be a Qualified Accountant with a proven track record of achievement at a management level in a similarly large and complex organisation.
This role will require you to have a good knowledge of both the local government accounting framework, relevant legislation relating to this role and experience of liaising with external audit in their audit of a Council’s financial accounts.
The Head of Finance roles are key members of the council’s senior finance management team and will assist the Chief Officer Financial Services in discharging their Section 151 statutory responsibilities through management of the strategic budgeting and statutory accounting functions in the Corporate team. They will work collaboratively with colleagues, partners, members and stakeholders to deliver the priorities of the Best City Ambition in order to achieve the required outcomes and ensure that fiscal responsibility and risk is managed effectively.
How to apply
For more information including the full job description and to apply, please click apply now.
If you have any queries or would like an informal chat about the role please contact Richard Ellis, Deputy Chief Officer – Financial Services (0113 3787814) or email
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Finance employer: Leeds City Council
Contact Detail:
Leeds City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the local government accounting framework and relevant legislation. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the specific challenges and responsibilities of the Head of Finance role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles within local government. They can provide valuable insights into the council's culture and expectations, which can be a great advantage during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with strategic financial management and how you've successfully led teams in previous roles. Highlight specific examples where you've implemented innovative strategies that resulted in cost savings or improved service delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in local government finance. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics during your discussions will show your passion for the role and your readiness to tackle the issues facing the council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Finance position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, especially the importance of financial management and strategic leadership.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your experience as a qualified accountant and any previous roles where you managed financial strategies or led finance teams. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to deliver change and exceed service standards.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role requires strong leadership, make sure to include instances where you successfully led a team or project. Discuss how you managed competing priorities and adapted to changing circumstances, particularly in a complex organization.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the values and goals of the council. Mention your understanding of local government accounting frameworks and your experience with external audits, as these are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds City Council
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your strategic decision-making and how you’ve driven change.
✨Understand Local Government Accounting
Make sure you're well-versed in the local government accounting framework and relevant legislation. Be ready to discuss your experience with these topics and how they relate to the role, as this knowledge is crucial for success.
✨Prepare for Financial Strategy Discussions
Since you'll be responsible for the Medium Term Financial Strategy, come prepared to discuss your approach to financial planning and management. Think about innovative strategies you've implemented in previous roles that could apply here.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
The role requires managing competing priorities and adapting to changing circumstances. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex projects or political sensitivities in your previous positions.
