At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, ensuring financial stewardship and governance for the council.
- Company: Large local government organisation focused on community service and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to work collaboratively with members and partners for community betterment.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategy and drive transformation in a vital public sector role.
- Qualifications: Extensive finance experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Our client is a large local government organisation looking for an experienced Head of Finance on an interim basis.
Job Purpose: To provide strategic leadership and oversight of the council's finance function, ensuring financial stewardship, robust governance, financial resilience, and value for money in all council activities.
As the designated Section 151 officer, ensure the discharge of statutory responsibilities for the proper administration of the council's financial affairs, including pensions, as the council is a pension administering authority for its LGPS fund.
Deputise for the chief executive, assuming full responsibilities of head of paid service in their absence, including organisational leadership and emergency decision making.
To play a key role in the overall leadership of the organisation, working collaboratively with Members and partners and serving as an ambassador for the island while fostering a higher-performing, motivated and engaged workforce committed to service excellence.
The candidate will need to lead on:
- Financial policy, strategy and management
- All duties as the Council's statutory Section 151 Officer
- Implementation of transformation and improvement plans
- Management accounting and financial planning
- Strategic procurement
- Treasury management
- Internal audit and risk assurance
Head of Finance employer: Positive Employment
Contact Detail:
Positive Employment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with local government. They might have insider info on the role or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of financial governance and statutory responsibilities. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured financial resilience and value for money in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've led teams or projects successfully, especially in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your capability to deputise for the chief executive.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Finance role. Highlight your strategic leadership experience and any relevant financial governance roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your vision for financial stewardship and how you can contribute to the council's goals, especially in terms of value for money.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your ability to lead teams and collaborate with various stakeholders. We want to see examples of how you've motivated and engaged a workforce in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. This helps us keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Positive Employment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive strategic decisions in previous roles. This shows you’re not just about the numbers but also about their impact on the organisation.
✨Understand the Council's Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities facing local government finance. Research recent initiatives or changes in legislation that may affect the council’s financial strategy. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
You’ll be stepping into a leadership role, so be prepared to share examples of how you’ve led teams through change or crisis. Highlight your experience in fostering collaboration and motivating staff, as this aligns with the council's aim for a higher-performing workforce.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities, especially in emergency decision-making situations. Think of scenarios where you had to make tough financial decisions under pressure and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.