At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead budget monitoring and deliver strategic financial insights for impactful decision-making.
- Company: Join Sandwell Council, a values-led organisation making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a strong focus on professional development.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a supportive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Play a key role in shaping financial sustainability and driving positive change.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified with experience in strategic financial management and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 60194 - 63832 £ per year.
Grade/Salary: Band J (£60,194 to £63,832)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, 37 hours
Location: Sandwell Council House, Oldbury (Hybrid)
Closing Date: 12/07/2026
Sandwell Council's Finance and Transformation Division is seeking an experienced Strategic Finance Business Partner (Place OR People) to join its team on a full-time, permanent basis based from its Oldbury office. The organisation is operating to a hybrid working model.
This is a key strategic finance role within the Council, responsible for leading the delivery of high-quality business partnering support across designated service areas. The postholder will take ownership of the budget monitoring and reporting process, working closely with the Head of Finance Business Partnering to ensure accurate and insightful financial information is incorporated into corporate reports for the Corporate Leadership Team and Councillors.
The role will play a proactive part in driving financial sustainability, identifying and delivering savings, income generation, and commercial opportunities across services. It will also support the development of the Council's Medium-Term Financial Plan, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities.
A core focus will be on strengthening the Business Partnering function, including monitoring key performance indicators, embedding a value-adding service, and building strong relationships with stakeholders. The postholder will lead on promoting robust financial governance, ensuring procedures and regulations are effective, and implementing improvements where necessary.
In addition, the role will take responsibility for the development and delivery of training to both the Business Partnering team and budget holders, enhancing financial awareness and capability across the organisation. The successful candidate will combine strong strategic insight with hands-on delivery, contributing to the Council's wider corporate objectives and continuous improvement agenda.
About the role
- Lead on the budget monitoring and reporting process for the services within the remit of the role and be responsible for assisting the Head of Finance Business Partnering to incorporate the outputs within the relevant Corporate Reports to Corporate Leadership Team and Councillors.
- Take a proactive, strategic role in the identification and delivery of savings, income generation and commercial opportunities for the services under the remit of the post.
- Monitor KPIs in relation to the Business Partnering service and work with Leadership Team to ensure the service adds value.
- Support the development of the Council's Medium-Term Financial Plan.
- Take a lead role in ensuring financial procedures and regulations are effective across the Council and promote good governance, identifying and implementing improvements where necessary.
- Lead on the training and development of both the Business Partnering Service and Budget Holders.
About you
- CCAB Qualified with evidence of Continuing Professional Development.
- Experience of planning of services within the political and partnership context of SMBC or another large complex organisation.
- Experience of leading and developing teams to deliver the outcomes of the Directorate Business Plan and Corporate Plan.
- Experience of leading effective financial management and delivering financial advice at a strategic level to Elected Members and Chief Officers in a Council or senior management in an organisation.
- Experience of managing employees and allocating workloads.
- Experience of commercial management.
- Ability to demonstrate knowledge of strategic service planning.
- An understanding of the legislative framework and governance arrangements applicable to Local Government.
- Knowledge of and ability to use financial systems, including extensive experience of the use of Oracle Fusion.
Why Sandwell Council?
At Sandwell Council, our work has a real impact. We are proud to be a values-led organisation that supports its employees with excellent benefits, a competitive remuneration package, and a strong focus on development. By joining us, you'll play a key role in delivering services that make a real and lasting difference to thousands of people across the borough.
How to apply
To be considered for this role, please submit a CV and supporting statement. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should a high number of applications be received. Applicants are therefore strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
If you are an internal candidate and currently at risk, please let the recruiting manager know.
We place equality, diversity and inclusion at the core of who we are and how we lead, where every voice matters. At Sandwell, we recognise and value the richness that comes from diverse lived experiences, perspectives, backgrounds and identities. This diversity makes us a stronger and more effective council.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels they belong, are treated fairly, and have the opportunity to thrive. Creating an environment where colleagues feel respected, supported and able to contribute fully is central to our culture and the way we work. We are committed to ensuring that all applicants and employees have equitable access to opportunities. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process and within the workplace so that everyone has the support they need to perform at their best and succeed in their role.
If you have any questions relating to equality, diversity, and inclusion, you can contact the EDI Team by visiting our website. If you have a disability and require assistance in submitting your CV, please contact us directly.
Strategic Finance Business Partner (Place OR People) in Birmingham employer: Sandwell Council
Sandwell Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee development and well-being, offering a competitive salary and a hybrid working model from its Oldbury office. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, the Council fosters a supportive work culture where every voice is valued, and employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the community. Joining Sandwell means being part of a dedicated team focused on delivering high-quality services that truly enhance the lives of residents across the borough.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Finance Business Partner (Place OR People) in Birmingham
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Sandwell Council. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Finance Business Partner (Place OR People) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Sandwell Council.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Sandwell Council's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Council
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Sandwell Council.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Sandwell Council will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Sandwell Council employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
