At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and shared services for multiple councils, driving innovation and performance.
- Company: Publica, a forward-thinking organisation shaping the future of public sector services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, agile working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and influence the future of public services.
- Why this job: Make a real impact during a transformative period in local government.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and significant senior-level finance leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 99174 - 99174 € per year.
About The Role
We are looking for an exceptional finance professional who will lead our finance and shared service provision for multiple councils and stakeholders, playing a pivotal role in shaping our future at Publica in the run up to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
You will bring extensive experience and be highly skilled in strategic and transactional finance, and shared service provision incorporating Council Tax, Business Rates and Benefits Administration across councils and third parties, which will complement the strong technical expertise already in place across the organisation, and will be committed to delivering high-quality, value-driven services that leverage the best of both public and commercial environments.
You will work directly with senior leaders, elected members and Board-level stakeholders, providing strategic advice and guidance to ensure we have robust governance arrangements, drive innovation, improve performance and shape long-term strategy within a complex and evolving environment.
As part of the senior leadership team, you'll be trusted to challenge thinking, bring fresh ideas and shape the future of the finance and shared service provision, as well as representing Publica, its services and operating model in the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) programmes for both Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. As we enter this period of significant change in the Public Sector, you will also need to be a leader who can bring people together, create clarity and inspire confidence during this period of transformation and opportunity.
This is a rare opportunity to combine strategic influence with hands-on leadership in a role that offers both visibility and genuine career-defining experience.
Some of the key areas of responsibility and projects include:
- Driving the continued evolution and improvement of our shared services across our partnership
- Leading finance systems modernisation, including ERP transformation and automation initiatives
- Preparing services and people for the potential impact of LGR, and representing Publica and its operating model in LGR programmes across Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire
- Improving service performance, efficiency and customer experience across finance and other transactional services
- Providing strategic advice and guidance to the Board, senior leaders, and Council Section 151 Officers
- Leading multidisciplinary teams across finance, revenues & benefits, treasury and transactional services
- Embedding a culture of innovation, continuous improvement and high performance
This role offers a unique combination of strategic influence, operational leadership and transformational impact, providing an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious leader looking to shape the future of public sector services.
About you
We are looking for a credible, commercially minded and forward-thinking finance leader who can operate confidently within a complex environment and build strong relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
You will bring:
- A recognised professional accountancy qualification (CCAB/CIPFA or equivalent)
- Significant senior-level finance leadership experience, preferably in the public sector
- Experience operating at executive, board or committee level
- A strong track record of leading transformation, improvement and change programmes
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
- The ability to balance strategic leadership with operational delivery
- A collaborative and resilient leadership style
- Strong commercial awareness and a focus on outcomes and continuous improvement
Special conditions
Ability to travel BPSS. This post designated as politically restricted in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Politically restricted post holders are restricted from canvassing on behalf of a political party or for a person who is, or seeks to be, a candidate for election to a local authority, the House of Commons, or the European Parliament.
For more information about this role please see the Job Description/Person Specification.
Proposed shortlisting dates: 15th June - 16th June
SLT Interview: 22nd June (In person)
Stakeholder Interview: 26th June (shortlist from the initial SLT Interviews)
To find out more information about our benefits and about our organisation please click the apply button which will redirect you to our careers page where you have all the details about this role.
Assistant Director - Finance (Shared Services) in Gloucester employer: Publica Group Ltd
Publica is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for finance professionals to lead transformative projects within the public sector. With a strong commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that encourages strategic thinking and operational excellence. Located in the picturesque areas of Cirencester, Coleford, and Witney, the company provides flexible agile working options, ensuring a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful change in local government services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director - Finance (Shared Services) in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in public services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent projects. Show us that you understand the challenges they face, especially with Local Government Reorganisation, and be ready to share how your skills can help tackle them.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your leadership style and how you’ve driven transformation in previous roles. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that energy to Publica.
✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Publica.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director - Finance (Shared Services) in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in strategic and transactional finance. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Leadership Experience:Since this role involves leading multidisciplinary teams, it’s crucial to emphasise your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've inspired teams and driven change in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our careers page! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Publica Group Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Assistant Director in Finance, you’ll need to be on top of your game with financial data. Brush up on key metrics related to Council Tax, Business Rates, and Benefits Administration. Be ready to discuss how you've used these figures to drive performance improvements in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a collaborative and resilient leadership style. Prepare examples that demonstrate how you've led multidisciplinary teams through change. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you inspired confidence and clarity among your team members.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) context. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to shaping the future of finance and shared services during this transition. Showing that you understand the strategic implications will set you apart.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Strong stakeholder management is crucial for this position. Think of instances where you’ve successfully influenced senior leaders or board members. Prepare to discuss your approach to building relationships and how you’ve navigated complex environments to achieve outcomes.
