Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the financial strategy and oversee the Council's budget and trading companies.
- Company: Sevenoaks District Council, committed to effective governance and community service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Enjoy a hybrid work model with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and shape the financial future of the community.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with Local Government finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 109592 - 109592 £ per year.
Sevenoaks District Council is looking to recruit its new Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer on a permanent basis. 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. Reporting into the Corporate Director of Customer, Digital & Resources you’ll provide advice 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.
To be considered for the role you will need to be a fully qualified accountant with comprehensive Local Government finance experience, including the production of the statutory Statement of Accounts and budget and target setting and monitoring. This role is a full time permanent role, with circa 3 days a week in the Sevenoaks office (the rest at home) and the package is circa £109,592.
Strategic Head of Finance & S151 in Sevenoaks 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 & S151 in Sevenoaks
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in local government finance and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local government finance. Be ready to discuss your experience with budget policy frameworks and the statutory Statement of Accounts. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that excite you, like the Strategic Head of Finance & S151 at Sevenoaks District Council. Apply through our website to ensure your application stands out and reaches the right people.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and are genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Head of Finance & S151 in Sevenoaks
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that align with the Strategic Head of Finance & S151 role. Highlight your Local Government finance experience and any relevant projects you've led, as this will show us you’re the right fit for the job.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect candidate. Don’t forget to mention your experience with budget policy frameworks and statutory accounts!
Showcase Your Decision-Making Skills: As a Section 151 Officer, decision-making is key. In your application, provide examples of how you've made lawful and financially sound decisions in previous roles. This will help us see your capability in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
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 your financial acumen. Brush up on the Council’s budget and any recent financial reports. Be ready to discuss how you would approach budget policy frameworks and ensure they are lawful and financially sound.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves strategic oversight and decision-making. Prepare examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past, particularly in Local Government finance. Highlight your experience with the final accounts process and how you’ve ensured compliance with best practices.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
The Council is undergoing significant changes, including Local Government Reorganisation. Familiarise yourself with these changes and be prepared to discuss how you can support the Council through this transition. Show that you’re not just focused on numbers but also on the strategic vision.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the Council's financial vision and the challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.