At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a forward-thinking local authority.
- Company: Dynamic local government sector with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and impactful work in the community.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead teams and drive financial transformation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local governance while advancing your finance career.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with significant local government experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 € per year.
Are you seeking your next interim position within the local government sector? We have a rewarding position available for an Interim Head of Finance within Stoke on Trent. We are seeking an experienced and proactive Interim Head of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership within a forward-thinking local authority. Reporting directly to the Section 151 Officer, you will play a key role in ensuring strong financial governance, budget management, and statutory compliance across the council.
Location: It is vital you can attend the office 2 days a week, or agree block attendances across the month. This is a high-profile leadership position requiring a commercially minded finance professional with significant local government experience and the ability to operate effectively in a complex political environment.
Key Responsibilities- Support the Section 151 Officer in delivering the council’s financial strategy and statutory responsibilities
- Lead on budget setting, medium-term financial planning, and year-end accounts
- Provide strategic financial advice to senior leadership teams, elected members, and service directors
- Oversee treasury management, capital programmes, and financial reporting
- Drive financial improvement, transformation, and efficiency initiatives
- Ensure robust financial controls, governance, and compliance with CIPFA and local government regulations
- Manage and develop finance teams to deliver high-quality services
- Lead on external audit liaison and regulatory returns
We are looking for a qualified finance professional (CIPFA, ACCA, ACA or equivalent) with:
- Significant senior finance leadership experience within local government
- Strong understanding of local authority finance, governance, and statutory requirements
- Experience supporting or deputising for a Section 151 Officer
- Proven ability to lead teams through change and financial challenge
- Excellent stakeholder management and political awareness
- Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills
Interim Head of Finance employer: Opus People Solutions Ltd
As an employer within the local government sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values strategic financial leadership and community impact. Our team enjoys competitive benefits, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in Stoke on Trent. With a focus on innovation and efficiency, we empower our employees to thrive in their roles while contributing to the financial governance of the council.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the local government sector and let them know you're on the lookout for interim roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local authority finance and governance. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled financial challenges in the past and how you can bring that experience to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, highlight specific examples of how you've led teams through change and improved financial processes. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a complex political environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We have a range of exciting opportunities, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team in making a difference in local government finance.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in local government finance. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Interim Head of Finance role. Be sure to mention your experience with budget management and financial governance, as these are crucial for us.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this is a high-profile leadership position, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. We want to know how you've successfully led teams through change and financial challenges in the past, so share those stories!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus People Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Interim Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and local government regulations relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and financial strategies in previous positions.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
This role requires navigating a complex political environment. Research the local authority's current challenges and priorities. Show that you understand how financial decisions impact various stakeholders and be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively communicated with elected members and senior leadership teams.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Highlight your experience in leading finance teams through change. Prepare examples of how you’ve driven financial improvement initiatives and managed compliance with regulations. This will demonstrate your capability to lead and inspire others in a high-pressure environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the council’s financial strategy and future challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.
