The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Are you a finance professional looking to make a meaningful impact in local government? Reading Borough Council is seeking a talented and motivated Finance Business Partner – Education to join our dynamic Finance Business Partnering Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of the Council, supporting children’s services Education directorate with expert financial advice and insight.
We seek the best talent from the widest pool of people as diversity and inclusion is the key to our success. Reading Borough Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to the recruitment and continued employment of people with disabilities.
At Reading Borough Council, we value innovation, collaboration, and ambition. We offer a hybrid working environment, combining office-based and remote work, and support flexible working patterns. You’ll be part of a supportive team that encourages professional development and recognises the importance of work‑life balance.
About the role
In this role, you will work closely with the Strategic Finance Business Partner for Education to deliver high-quality financial support across a range of services. You’ll be a key advisor to budget managers, helping them navigate financial planning, budget setting, and year-end processes. Your work will directly influence decision-making, ensuring that resources are used effectively and that the Council’s strategic objectives are met.
Key responsibilities include
- Providing proactive financial support and challenge to budget holders and senior managers
- Support strategic planning, budget setting, and detailed monthly budget monitoring
- Producing and presenting financial analysis and management information to support decision-making
- Identifying financial risks, opportunities, and efficiency savings
- Supporting the development of business cases, investment bids, and service improvement projects
- Contributing to statutory returns, grant submissions, and year-end accounts processes
- Ensuring compliance with local authority accounting standards, legislative requirements, and CIPFA best practice
- Working collaboratively across Finance and Children’s Services to improve financial management and outcomes
About you
We’re looking for someone who is CCAB qualified (or expecting to achieve full qualification within the next 12 months) with a strong understanding of public sector finance. You should be confident in managing complex financial information, communicating clearly with stakeholders, and working collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
You’ll be part of a team that relies on each individual to play their part to the best of their ability. As well as the colleagues that you work closely with every day, you’ll also be part of Team Reading, playing your personal part in making Reading a successful and vibrant place.
Our vision
Our vision is to ensure that Reading realises its potential as a great place to live, work and play, and that everyone shares the benefits of this success. Our values and behaviours guide how we will achieve this:
Work Together as one team - champion and inspire a culture which ensures that all employees across the organisation work together to provide excellent outcomes for Reading
Drive Efficiency - create an environment in which resources are used efficiently, and employees’ skills are developed and used effectively
Be Ambitious - aspire to deliver excellence and inspire and support others to reach their potential
Make a Difference to Reading - inspire a culture in which the customer is the focus and where change is welcomed as an opportunity
Our offer
We offer a supportive environment to grow and develop your career with the opportunity to put your ideas across. Innovation and ambition are strongly encouraged, and you’ll get a great feel for that working in our friendly and collaborative environment.
A competitive salary alongside a range of benefits including:
- Generous holiday entitlement - 25 days holiday each year plus bank holidays - rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service and 33 days after 10 years' service, with the option to buy additional leave
- A wide range of flexible working opportunities
- Modern working environment at the Civic Offices in the heart of Reading
- Life Assurance - three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS)
- On-site day nursery (Kennet Day nursery) rated outstanding by Ofsted
- Season Ticket Loan - a loan to help with the cost of your rail or bus journey, to and from work
- Lease car salary sacrifice scheme allowing you to lease a brand new, greener car for three years. The monthly fee includes insurance, servicing and road tax
Finance Business Partner - Education in Reading employer: Reading Borough Council
Whitley Park Primary and Nursery School is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive community where educators can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development and a supportive work culture, teachers are encouraged to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying a collaborative environment with dedicated colleagues. Located in a welcoming area, this school prioritises the welfare of its staff and students, making it an ideal place for passionate educators to grow and succeed.
