At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Council's finance function and ensure sound financial stewardship.
- Company: Isle of Wight Council, a supportive and well-resourced local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rates, weekly pay, and a stable working environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for leadership in a dynamic local government setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on an island community while leading financial strategy.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified CCAB accountant with substantial post-qualification experience.
An exceptional opportunity has arisen for a highly experienced senior finance leader to join the Isle of Wight Council as Interim Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive, designated as Section 151 Officer. This critical interim post provides robust leadership cover whilst the Council recruits permanently, with an initial duration of 3–4 months from mid‑July 2026. The role carries day rates of £672.57–£900.00 per day and is based at County Hall, Newport, with regular weekly travel to the Isle of Wight being an absolute requirement.
You will provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Council’s finance function, ensuring sound financial stewardship, robust governance, and value for money across all activities. As designated s151 Officer, you will discharge statutory responsibilities for the proper administration of the Council’s financial affairs—including pensions, as the Council is an LGPS administering authority. You will also deputise for the Chief Executive, assuming full Head of Paid Service responsibilities in their absence.
Key accountabilities include:
- Financial policy, strategy and management
- Medium‑term financial strategy for a gross budget exceeding £300m
- Management accounting and financial planning
- Strategic procurement
- Treasury management
- Internal audit and risk assurance
- Council‑wide transformation and efficiency programmes
Candidates must be fully qualified CCAB accountants with substantial post‑qualification experience, a sound understanding of the Local Government Act 1972 (s151), and a strong track record of delivering balanced budgets and whole‑council transformation in a complex local authority setting.
If you are a commercially minded, innovative senior finance leader ready to make a real impact on an island community, we welcome your application.
What’s on offer:
- Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
- Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
- A desirable location with great transport links
- A stable, well‑resourced, and encouraging working environment
Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive – Finance – #OR100597 in Newport employer: Semester.co.uk
The Isle of Wight Council offers an exceptional opportunity for senior finance leaders to make a meaningful impact within a supportive and well-resourced environment. With competitive pay rates and a management team that values approachability and experience, this role not only provides the chance to lead financial strategy but also fosters professional growth in a desirable location with excellent transport links. Join us in shaping the future of our island community while enjoying a collaborative work culture that prioritises innovation and sound governance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive – Finance – #OR100597 in Newport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with local government. They might have insider info on the role or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of the Local Government Act 1972 and the specific financial challenges faced by councils. We want you to show that you’re not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the key accountabilities of the role. Highlight your track record in delivering balanced budgets and transformation projects—this is your time to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive – Finance – #OR100597 in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the role of Strategic Director of Finance. Highlight your qualifications as a CCAB accountant and any relevant leadership roles you've held in local government.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this interim position. Mention your understanding of the Local Government Act 1972 and how your experience can help the Isle of Wight Council achieve its financial goals.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Include examples of how you've delivered balanced budgets or led transformation projects in previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the complexities of this position.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Semester.co.uk
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Strategic Director of Finance, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and recent trends in local government finance. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed budgets over £300m and any innovative strategies you've implemented.
✨Understand the Local Government Act
Familiarise yourself with the Local Government Act 1972, especially section 151. This is crucial for your role as the designated s151 Officer. Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the statutory responsibilities and how you’ve ensured compliance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
This role requires robust leadership skills. Prepare examples of how you've led finance teams through transformation and efficiency programmes. Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with other departments and how you've driven change in a complex local authority setting.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the Council's current financial challenges and their vision for the future. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.
