Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the financial strategy of the Council and oversee budget management.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Council committed to community service and financial integrity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with top professionals and shape the future of local government finance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local governance while developing your financial expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance and strong decision-making skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Working across the whole organisation, you’ll have strategic oversight of the financial core of the Council, including the Council’s budget and the Council’s trading companies. As the Section 151 Officer, you will play a key role in supporting the Council through its wider journey, including preparation for Local Government Reorganisation. You’ll provide advice and guidance to Members and colleagues on budget policy framework and have the authority to make decisions, ensuring they are all lawful and financially sound.
In addition, you’ll take ownership of the final accounts process, overseeing the preparation of the statement of accounts and interpreting complex guidance. At Sevenoaks, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your skills further by working with the Head of Internal Audit and to oversee the external audit process, ensuring that the Council works effectively and within best practice.
You’ll also have the potential to hone your expertise by developing the Council's financial vision and leading on a variety of projects from a financial perspective, assessing viability. This role will be based at our Council Offices, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks Kent TN13 1HG. We currently operate a hybrid working model for the majority of our roles where your working time will be divided between the office (3 days) and home working (2 days).
Closing date: 24 May 2026. Interviews: w/c 1 June 2026.
Strategic Head of Finance and S151 Officer in Kent employer: Sevenoaks District Council
Contact Detail:
Sevenoaks District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Head of Finance and S151 Officer in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work in finance or local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Council's recent projects and financial strategies. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge and how you can contribute to their financial vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Strategic Head of Finance. We want to hear about your unique experiences and how they can help us deliver exceptional services.
✨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, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Sevenoaks.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Head of Finance and S151 Officer in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements. This will help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to highlight how your unique experiences align with the essential requirements. Don’t just list your skills; tell us how you’ve used them in real situations to achieve results. We want to see your personality come through!
Be Authentic and Personal: We’re not fans of generic applications, so steer clear of AI-generated content. Instead, share your personal journey and insights. Let us know what drives you and how you can contribute to our mission. Authenticity goes a long way in making your application stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: When you’re ready to submit your application, make sure you do it through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there, making the process smooth and straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sevenoaks District Council
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Strategic Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial principles. Brush up on the Council’s budget and trading companies before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you would approach financial oversight and decision-making in line with the Council's objectives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership, so think about examples from your past where you've successfully led teams or projects. Prepare to share how you’ve guided colleagues through complex financial processes or supported them in achieving their goals.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the current landscape of local government, especially regarding reorganisation. Be prepared to discuss how you can support the Council through this transition and what strategies you would implement to ensure financial soundness during the process.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that show your interest in the role and the Council’s future. Ask about the challenges they face in financial management or how they envision the role evolving with the hybrid working model.