At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and oversee the Council's budget and trading companies.
- Company: Sevenoaks District Council, committed to effective governance and community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and shape the financial future of the community.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with Local Government finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 109592 - 109592 € per year.
Sevenoaks District Council is looking to recruit its new Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer on a permanent basis. Working across the whole organisation, you’ll have strategic oversight of the financial core of the Council, including the Council’s budget and the Council’s trading companies.
As the Section 151 Officer, you will play a key role in supporting the Council through its wider journey, including preparation for Local Government Reorganisation. Reporting into the Corporate Director of Customer, Digital & Resources you’ll provide advice on budget policy framework and have the authority to make decisions, ensuring they are all lawful and financially sound.
In addition, you’ll take ownership of the final accounts process, overseeing the preparation of the statement of accounts and interpreting complex guidance. At Sevenoaks, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your skills further by working with the Head of Internal Audit and to oversee the external audit process, ensuring that the Council works effectively and within best practice.
You’ll also have the potential to hone your expertise by developing the Council’s financial vision and leading on a variety of projects from a financial perspective, assessing viability.
To be considered for the role you will need to be a fully qualified accountant with comprehensive Local Government finance experience, including the production of the statutory Statement of Accounts and budget and target setting and monitoring.
This role is a full time permanent role, with circa 3 days a week in the Sevenoaks office (the rest at home) and the package is circa £109,592.
Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer in London employer: Morgan Law
Sevenoaks District Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a significant impact on the community. With a strong focus on employee development and a supportive culture, you will have the opportunity to enhance your skills while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the financial future of the Council. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid working model, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life effectively.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in local government finance or related fields. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and decision-makers. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Council's recent projects and financial strategies. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their challenges and how you can contribute to their financial vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience with budget policy frameworks and statutory accounts clearly and confidently. We want to hear how your skills align with the role of Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the job description. Highlight your local government finance experience and any relevant qualifications to show us you’re the right fit for the Strategic Head of Finance role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with the Council’s financial vision. Don’t forget to mention your experience with budget policy frameworks!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to oversee financial processes and lead projects. We want to see how you’ve made a difference in previous roles, especially in local government finance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding the recruitment process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Morgan Law
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Strategic Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on the Council’s budget policies and be ready to discuss how you would approach budget setting and monitoring. Familiarise yourself with the statutory Statement of Accounts to show you’re on top of the technical details.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the current landscape in local government finance, especially regarding reorganisation. Be prepared to share insights on how you can support the Council through these changes and what best practices you would implement.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves overseeing various projects and leading teams. Think of examples from your past where you’ve successfully led financial initiatives or managed audits. Highlight your ability to make lawful and financially sound decisions that align with the Council’s vision.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Council’s financial strategies and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
