At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy for council-owned companies and drive business performance.
- Company: Join North Yorkshire Council and Brierley Homes, shaping communities through innovative developments.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible hybrid working.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a strategic finance role with direct Board exposure.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in finance management and a recognised accounting qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60500 £ per year.
A Commercial Role - Powered by Public Sector Strength
This is a rare opportunity to bring your private sector commercial expertise into a role where the focus is firmly on driving business performance, profitability and growth – not policy.
North Yorkshire Council is seeking a high‐calibre, commercially astute finance leader to oversee the financial function of its portfolio of council‐owned companies, with a particular focus on Brierley Homes, our residential development business. You'll operate as a true commercial partner to the Managing Director and leadership team – shaping decisions, managing investment, and ensuring strong financial returns across a complex development pipeline. All within the context of a stable, flexible and highly rewarding local government employment offer and within a large financial services team.
The Role
This is a strategic and hands‐on commercial finance leadership role, responsible for:
- Leading the end‐to‐end finance function across council‐owned companies
- Driving financial performance, governance and decision‐making across multiple residential development projects
- Managing cash flow, funding arrangements and investment structures
- Providing clear, actionable insight to the Board and Shareholder
- Acting as a key advisor to the Managing Director on all financial matters
You will work at the heart of a commercially focused organisation – partnering closely with construction, development and commercial teams to understand cost drivers, risks and opportunities in real time. You will be responsible for the effective leadership and delivery of the organisation's finance function, ensuring strong governance, compliance and commercial insight.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee project cashflow, cost to complete, and profitability forecasting
- Lead on financial reporting to Board, Shareholder and senior stakeholders
- Manage development funding, drawdowns and lender compliance
- Ensure robust financial governance across group entities and SPVs
- Deliver accurate monthly management accounts and statutory reporting, ensuring compliance
- Drive financial insight and performance improvement across the business
- Support strategic projects and commercial decision‐making at the highest level
About You
We are looking for a commercial thinker first and foremost – someone who understands how finance drives business success.
- Proven experience as a Financial Controller / Senior Finance Manager in a commercial environment
- Strong expertise in project‐based finance, cashflow management, and financial modelling
- A track record of influencing strategic decisions and delivering business outcomes
- Confidence working with senior stakeholders, including Boards and non‐finance leaders
- A recognised accounting qualification (CIMA, ACCA, ACA or equivalent) highly desirable
- Experience in residential development, construction or real estate
- Understanding of development finance, SPVs and complex funding structures
Why This Role?
- Commercial focus – you'll be driving financial performance and business success
- Strategic influence – direct exposure to Board‐level decision‐making
- Complex environment – work across multi‐site development projects and funding structures
- Leadership opportunity – shape and lead a specialist finance team
Why North Yorkshire Council & Brierley Homes?
Alongside a commercially focused role, you'll benefit from an exceptional employment package, including:
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Flexible and hybrid working (typically 3 days on site)
- Job security and long‐term career development
- The opportunity to work on high‐impact developments that shape communities
You will be welcomed and supported by a large progressive Financial Services function providing the platform to progress your career.
Be Part of a Commercial Future Inside Local Government
If you're ready to apply your private sector mindset in a role where you can influence real commercial outcomes – while enjoying the stability and benefits of the public sector – we want to hear from you. Apply today and bring commercial edge to a unique and ambitious environment.
Contact
For an informal conversation, or to hear more about the role, please contact Graham via Graham.Byrne@northyorks.gov.uk
Key Dates
- Closing Date: 4th June 2026
- Interview Date: 10th – 12th June 2026
Key Documents
Job Description Total Rewards Brochure
NYC are committed to directly recruiting staff and will not accept applications nor services from agency suppliers in respect of our vacancies.
North Yorkshire Councils' purpose is to deliver services and facilities to the diverse residents and visitors of North Yorkshire. To ensure we deliver inclusive services we strive to have a diverse workforce where everybody can be themselves by respecting differences and embedding equality of opportunity. We celebrate diversity and recognise each other's contributions; we therefore welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Business Finance Manager (Commercial Focus) in Northallerton employer: North Yorkshire County Council
Brierley Homes and North Yorkshire Council offers an exceptional employment experience, combining the stability of local government with a dynamic commercial focus. Employees benefit from a generous benefits package, including a Local Government Pension Scheme, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for career development within a supportive financial services team. This role not only allows you to influence strategic decisions but also contributes to impactful community developments in the beautiful surroundings of North Yorkshire.
Contact Details:
North Yorkshire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Finance Manager (Commercial Focus) in Northallerton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and development sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential employers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Brierley Homes and North Yorkshire Council thoroughly. Understand their projects and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your commercial acumen! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've driven financial performance in previous roles. Highlight your ability to influence strategic decisions and deliver results – that’s what they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Brierley Homes and making a real impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Finance Manager (Commercial Focus) in Northallerton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Business Finance Manager role. Highlight your commercial finance expertise and any relevant project-based finance experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at Brierley Homes. Share specific examples of how you've driven financial performance in previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a finance leader, we want to see how you've influenced strategic decisions in the past. Include examples of how you've partnered with senior stakeholders and led teams to achieve business outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at North Yorkshire County Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Business Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the role, such as cash flow management and profitability forecasting. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive business performance in your previous roles.
✨Understand the Organisation
Familiarise yourself with North Yorkshire Council and Brierley Homes. Research their recent projects, financial strategies, and community impact. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals and values during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of examples from your past experience where you've influenced financial decisions or improved governance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with senior stakeholders, be prepared to discuss your experience in stakeholder management. Highlight instances where you've successfully communicated complex financial information to non-financial leaders, showcasing your ability to act as a commercial partner.
