At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance team, oversee financial functions, and provide strategic advice to the Council.
- Company: Havering Council, committed to delivering excellent services for residents.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, professional development, and health support.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture that values collaboration and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial sustainability and service delivery in your community.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified accountant with senior leadership experience, ideally in local government.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
Havering is seeking an experienced and accomplished finance leader to join the Council as its permanent Director of Finance. Reporting to the Strategic Director of Resources, this is a pivotal role at the heart of the Council. You will lead a finance service of more than 100 staff, oversee core financial functions and, as Deputy Section 151 Officer, provide trusted strategic advice to Members, senior officers and partners. Like many councils, Havering faces significant financial challenges. The decisions we make over the coming years will be critical to securing long‑term financial sustainability whilst continuing to deliver high‑quality services for residents.
What makes Havering distinctive is the shared commitment to financial sustainability from elected Members and the Executive Leadership Team. Financial sustainability runs throughout the Administration's 100 Day Plan and is one of the Council's key priorities. This role will be central to strengthening financial management, governance, service delivery and long‑term resilience. You will join an organisation with a strong, open and supportive culture. Professional advice is respected, constructive challenge is welcomed and leaders work collaboratively to support difficult decisions. Finance has a respected and influential voice across the Council.
As Director of Finance, you will:
- Act as Deputy Section 151 Officer and support the Council's statutory financial responsibilities.
- Lead the development and delivery of the Medium-Term Financial Strategy and the production of the Statutory Statement of Accounts.
- Provide strategic financial advice to Members, Executive Directors and senior managers.
- Drive improvements in financial management, governance, accountability and financial resilience.
- Support the delivery of a regeneration and capital programme valued at more than £1 billion.
- Lead a large, capable and committed finance service.
About You
You will be a CCAB qualified accountant with substantial senior leadership experience, ideally within local government or a similarly complex public sector setting. Politically aware and delivery-focused, you will combine strategic insight with strong financial grip. Most importantly, you will be a credible and resilient leader who can build confidence, influence decision‑making and help secure the Council's long‑term financial future.
Why Havering?
Working for Havering means joining a council committed to delivering excellent services for residents. We offer:
- A supportive and inclusive working environment guided by our ICARE values.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Generous annual leave, with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Extensive learning and professional development opportunities.
- A comprehensive health, wellbeing and employee support programme.
We're committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from candidates who share our commitment to public service and delivering positive outcomes for residents and communities.
Additional Information
We want everyone to choose Havering. When you apply for a job with us, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. Our residents and service users come from all walks of life, and so do our employees.
The London Borough of Havering has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. We practice anonymised recruitment. Please ensure that you remove all personal information from any documents that you upload.
About Us
With its excellent transport links into central London, extensive town centre regeneration and the highest concentration of green space anywhere in London, Havering has a unique offer as a place to live, work and visit. By making the most of its position and opportunities, Havering is becoming a hub for start‑ups and expanding businesses, as well as construction, logistics, engineering and manufacturing industries.
Director of Finance employer: London Borough of Havering
At the London Borough of Havering, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values diversity and fosters a supportive work culture. As a Section 20 Consultation Officer, you will benefit from competitive salary packages, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. Our commitment to transparency and customer-focused service ensures that you will be part of a dedicated team striving for continuous improvement and excellence in public service.
Contact Details:
London Borough of Havering Recruitment Team
