At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance transformation and shared services for multiple councils, driving innovation and performance.
- 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 dynamic team with opportunities for growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public sector finance during a transformative period.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and significant 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.
Senior Finance Leader — Shared Services & Transformation 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 well-being with generous benefits such as up to 33 days of annual leave, a health cash plan, and a supportive culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. Join us to lead transformative finance initiatives while making a meaningful impact in local government.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Leader — Shared Services & Transformation in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector, especially those involved in local government. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn – you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your experience in leading transformation and improvement programmes. Share specific examples of how you've driven change and improved service performance – that’s what they want to hear!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its challenges. Understand the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) context and think about how your skills can help navigate this change. Tailor your responses to show you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the future of the organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you prepare for interviews and showcase your skills effectively. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you a better chance of standing out from the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Leader — Shared Services & Transformation 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 finance and shared services. 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 is all about leading teams and driving transformation, be sure to include examples of your leadership style and any successful change programmes you've led. We love seeing how you inspire and motivate others!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your ideas and experiences, as we appreciate clarity in communication—especially in finance!
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Publica Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Finance Leader, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in strategic and transactional finance. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the role, such as Council Tax and Business Rates. Be ready to discuss how you've improved financial performance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This position requires a collaborative and resilient leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've led multidisciplinary teams through transformation and change. Highlight your ability to inspire confidence and bring people together during complex projects.
✨Understand the Local Government Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current challenges and opportunities within local government, especially regarding the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to shaping the future of finance and shared services in this evolving environment.
✨Prepare Strategic Insights
You’ll be providing strategic advice to senior leaders and stakeholders. Think about innovative ideas or improvements you've implemented in past roles. Be ready to share your vision for enhancing service performance and customer experience in finance and transactional services.
