At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance services for multiple councils and drive innovation in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Publica, a forward-thinking organisation shaping the future of local government finance.
- Benefits: Agile working, generous leave, health cash plan, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on continuous improvement and high performance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact during a significant transformation in local government.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and senior-level finance leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 99174 - 99174 £ per year.
£99,174 per annum, 37 hours per week, 18 months fixed-term contract, Cirencester / Coleford / Witney / Agile Working.
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). With extensive experience in strategic and transactional finance and shared service provision across Council Tax, Business Rates and Benefits Administration, you 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 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 programmes for Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. During this significant change in the Public Sector, you need to be a leader who can bring people together, create clarity and inspire confidence throughout the transformation and opportunity period.
Key Responsibilities
- 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
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.
- 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 clearance required
Benefits
- Agile working allowing a mix of home and office work
- JNC Chief Officer Terms and Conditions, including up to 33 days paid annual leave (pro rata if part time) plus bank holidays
- Two volunteering days off a year to support a charity of your choice
- Health cash plan giving cash back on health, dental and eye care
- Pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution of earnings
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for positive, preventative and supportive advice and counselling
- Cycle to work scheme
- Salary sacrifice car lease scheme for electric cars with significant tax and NI savings
- Generous sickness cover above statutory entitlements
- Additional income protection covering 50% of salary for up to five years in case of sickness or injury
- Life assurance at four times annual salary
This post is 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.
Assistant Director – Finance in Witney employer: Publica Group
Publica is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic work environment in Cirencester, Coleford, and Witney, with the flexibility of agile working. We prioritise employee growth through leadership opportunities and a culture of innovation, while providing generous benefits such as up to 33 days of annual leave, a health cash plan, and a supportive Employee Assistance Programme. Join us in shaping the future of local government finance and enjoy a rewarding career that makes a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director – Finance in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with local government. 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 you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills can specifically help Publica during the Local Government Reorganisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership style and experience align with the role. We want to hear how you can inspire confidence and drive innovation in a complex environment.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of our team at Publica.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director – Finance in Witney
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 of Assistant Director – Finance, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant 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 driven transformation and improvement in previous roles, as this will resonate well with us.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Publica Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Assistant Director in Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in strategic and transactional finance. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've improved service performance and efficiency in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a collaborative and resilient leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've led multidisciplinary teams through change, especially in complex environments. Highlight your ability to inspire confidence and bring people together.
✨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 significant change, and how your strategic advice can guide senior leaders.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Strong stakeholder management is crucial for this position. Think of specific instances where you've influenced decision-making at the executive or board level. Be ready to discuss how you build relationships and drive innovation across various stakeholders.
