Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a local authority in Kent.
- Company: Join a dynamic local government team making a real difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, local government pension scheme, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Be a pivotal leader shaping financial strategies that impact the community.
- Qualifications: Chartered accountancy qualification and leadership experience in finance required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 78000 - 90000 £ per year.
The Opportunity Goodman Masson are partnered with a local authority based in Kent to recruit for a high-calibre Chief Finance Officer to serve as a pivotal leader within the organisation. As the Deputy Section 151 Officer, you will hold delegated authority to act as the Section 151 Officer in the absence of the COO. You will be a key voice at senior executive and Member meetings, representing the finance function at Corporate Management Team, Cabinet, and Scrutiny Committees. In this strategic role, you will direct the development of the Council’s financial strategy framework, while ensuring robust budgetary control and sound financial management across all statutory functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Strategy & Governance: Lead the preparation of revenue and capital budgets, the Statement of Accounts, and all statutory financial returns.
- Operational Leadership: Oversee a diverse portfolio including local taxation (council tax and business rates), welfare and benefit services, and corporate debt recovery.
- Strategic Support: Act as a trusted advisor to the COO and elected Members, ensuring all reports have appropriate financial implications and providing training for the Audit Committee.
- Resource Management: Manage revenue budgets exceeding £15 million and act as an authorised signatory for all services.
- Technical Oversight: Direct teams providing front-line financial services, including treasury management, VAT activity, insurance, and the maintenance of financial systems.
Essential Qualifications & Experience
- Professional Qualification: Relevant Chartered level professional accountancy qualification (e.g., CIPFA).
- Leadership Experience: Minimum of 2 year’s experience as a Head of Service managing strategic and operational finance, revenues, benefits, or debt function.
- Strategic Track Record: Proven success in delivering improved outcomes, savings, and effective risk management within a large organisation.
- Communication Mastery: Ability to translate complex technical financial information into clear, engaging content for the public, staff, and elected officials. Deep understanding of national local government priorities and the ability to navigate elected member priorities effectively.
Salary range is £78,000 – £90,0000 (Depending on Experience) + Local Government Pension Scheme. Hybrid working on offer. Please apply ASAP to ensure your details are considered.
Chief Finance Officer (Local Government) in Chatham employer: Public Sector
Contact Detail:
Public Sector Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer (Local Government) in Chatham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in local government or finance sectors. Attend relevant events and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's financial strategies and recent initiatives. Show that you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who understands the bigger picture. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application and get back to you quicker!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer (Local Government) in Chatham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your relevant experience in financial strategy and governance, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
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 Chief Finance Officer role. Share specific examples of your past successes in managing budgets and leading teams, and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves translating complex financial information, make sure your application reflects your ability to communicate clearly. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate clarity just as much as you do!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Public Sector
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Finance Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to lead financial strategy and governance.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and priorities of local government finance. Research recent developments in Kent and be prepared to discuss how you can align your financial strategies with the council's goals and community needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership. Think about times when you’ve led teams or projects successfully. Be ready to share these experiences, focusing on how you’ve motivated others and driven results in a complex environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
You’ll need to translate complex financial information for various stakeholders. Practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms. During the interview, aim to engage your interviewers by making your responses clear and relatable.