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- Tasks: Lead financial transformation and corporate services for Bradford's Council.
- Company: Bradford Council, a dynamic and diverse local authority.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact and lead change in the community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of public service delivery in an enterprising district.
- Qualifications: Experienced finance professional with leadership skills in local government.
- Other info: Join a team committed to equality, diversity, and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation. As one of the largest, youngest, most diverse, and enterprising districts in the country, we are building a modern, responsive Council that truly serves its communities. With major regeneration projects underway, including the Southern Gateway, city centre transformation, and improved transport connections, Bradford is a place where leadership makes a real and lasting difference. We are looking for a Strategic Director, Corporate Services to champion our values-led culture, empower teams to achieve more, and spearhead transformation that redefines public service delivery.
About the Role
As our new Strategic Director, Corporate Services you’ll have every opportunity to make your mark, providing the system leadership that maximises the use of our resources, and drives our One Council approach.
You’ll be the Council’s Chief Financial Officer (Section 151 Officer), leading the Council’s approach to establishing financial resilience and driving transformational change. Together with your colleagues in the Corporate Leadership Team, you\\\’ll spearhead our improvement journey, working collaboratively to address our priorities of financial sustainability, growth, and improving outcomes for our communities.
You’ll also lead a broad and critical portfolio of corporate services including financial services, HR & OD, legal & governance, IT & Digital and procurement. This is your chance to lead on financial transformation, designing and implementing the Council’s ERP plans, driving forward our digital and AI developments by way of example and across the whole range of corporate services implementing leading edge, high quality, cost effective services that underpin our transformation for the benefit of Bradford’s residents and communities.
Responsibilities
- Lead the Council as Chief Financial Officer (Section 151 Officer), driving financial resilience and transformational change.
- Provide strategic leadership for a broad portfolio of corporate services: financial services, HR & OD, legal & governance, IT & Digital, and procurement.
- Design and implement ERP plans, advance digital and AI developments, and deliver high-quality, cost-effective services that underpin transformation for Bradford’s residents and communities.
Qualifications
We are seeking an experienced and appropriately qualified (CCAB/CIMA) finance professional with a track record in the leadership of local government finance and resources services and functions. You’re ready to make the next step in your career, potentially from a Director of Finance (S151) role in a large Council, or from a role of similar breadth in a smaller authority.
What We\’re Looking For
Ready to make a lasting impact on Bradford\’s future, you’ll be someone who thrives on leading change, bringing a fresh perspective and energy to organisation transformation and service improvement. You\\\’ll understand how to build credibility across our Council and district and engage effectively with decision makers and partners on complex, politically sensitive issues. You\\\’ll have a track record of bringing teams together, creating joined-up approaches, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. We need a leader who can inspire, develop and empower your teams to reach their full potential; someone who combines strategic vision with practical delivery skills – a leader who can demonstrate personal credibility, resilience, and genuine enthusiasm for the challenges and opportunities ahead. You’ll also have a deep understanding of equality and diversity and be comfortable working in one of the UK\\\’s most diverse councils and communities. Above all, you\\\’ll be someone who delivers on promises – straightforward, action-oriented, and focused on making a real difference for Bradford District.
If you\\\’re excited by the opportunity to help build an outstanding Council in a district with extraordinary potential, we want to hear from you.
How to apply
For further information and to apply, visit www.bradfordontherise.co.uk or contact:
- Mark Bearn 07747 181490
- Dylan Craven 07442 408861
The closing date for applications is midnight on Sunday, 21st September 2025
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Apply for Strategic Director, Corporate Services
This role expires 21/09/2025.
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Strategic Director, Corporate Services (Full Time) employer: New Start
Contact Detail:
New Start Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Director, Corporate Services (Full Time)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to Bradford Council. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Council’s current projects and challenges. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about making a difference in Bradford. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to be able to clearly articulate your vision for the role and how you can lead transformational change. Get a friend to help you rehearse or even record yourself to refine your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the opportunity. Make sure to follow up after applying to express your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Director, Corporate Services (Full Time)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Strategic Director role. Highlight your experience in local government finance and how it aligns with Bradford's transformation goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you've led teams and driven change in previous roles. Share examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire and empower others, especially in a diverse environment like Bradford.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your ideas and ensure that your passion for making a difference in Bradford comes through.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people and gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Start
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Strategic Director role. Brush up on financial resilience, transformational change, and the specifics of corporate services like HR, IT, and procurement. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you empower teams. Think of examples where you've successfully led change or improved service delivery. They want to see that you can inspire and develop others while driving results.
✨Understand Bradford's Context
Familiarise yourself with Bradford’s current transformation projects and community needs. Being able to reference specific initiatives, like the Southern Gateway or city centre transformation, will show that you’re genuinely interested and ready to make an impact.
✨Engage with Their Values
Reflect on how your personal values align with the Council’s mission. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a values-led culture and promote equality and diversity within the organisation. This will demonstrate your commitment to their vision for the future.