At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance team, manage budgets, and provide strategic financial advice.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council, dedicated to sustainable community services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension, enhanced leave, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Flexible work options and sponsorship for Skilled Worker Visas available.
- Why this job: Be part of transformational change while supporting vital community projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in budget management and staff leadership is essential.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 52413 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable, the skills, qualifications, and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job details
Job reference REQ00000018787 | Date posted 15/08/2025 | Application closing date 01/09/2025 | Location: Various Locations | Salary: £51,356-£52,413 | Contract Type: Permanent | Hours: 37 per week | Full time
Finance Manager - WMF2210e
Location: Penrith, Kendal, Barrow (with the facility to work from Parkhouse, Carlisle; this will be a workbase, not a contractual location).
About this opportunity
Due to internal promotion, an exciting opportunity has arisen within our Finance team for a Finance Manager supporting the Thriving Places Directorate.
Our Finance Team provides financial management, reporting, accountancy, and advice to Directors, heads of service, budget holders, elected Members, and stakeholders across the Council\'s services.
Reporting to the Group Accountant/Group Finance Manager, you will manage a team of 4 staff passionate about finance business partnering, supporting the full budget cycle including development, monitoring, and year-end processes, providing technical, operational, and strategic advice to enable effective budget management and support transformational change projects. The role also ensures robust financial systems and accounting information. Responsibilities include recruitment, performance management, and leadership of professional staff.
As Finance Manager for Thriving Places, you will oversee financial management and business partnering for a 2025-26 gross budget of just under £80m, including:
- Climate and Natural Environment
- Inclusive and Green Growth
- Sustainable Highways and Transport
- Waste and Environmental Services
You will also support key capital schemes within the Capital Programme 2025-2030.
Following LGR, the Council is undertaking a change programme to improve efficiency and effectiveness, working with residents to deliver sustainable services.
The Finance Manager will play a key role in supporting managers to deliver financially sustainable services through high-quality financial information and advice, working closely with the Thriving Places Leadership team, Group Finance Manager, Senior Finance Officers, and Members.
Who we are looking for…
We seek an experienced and enthusiastic Accountant with the drive to support the Council\'s objective of becoming financially sustainable. You should have extensive practical knowledge in budget preparation, monitoring, year-end accounting, and staff management, with a commitment to personal and professional development.
What we offer you!
At Westmorland and Furness Council, benefits include a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave, and various perks and discounts. For more information, visit our Careers site.
Would you like to find out more?
For further details about responsibilities and essential criteria, please view the attachments below. For informal inquiries, contact Dawn Bond at dawn.bond@cumbria.gov.uk.
Application and Interview information
Interviews will be held in the week commencing 8th September 2025. Both in-person and virtual options are available, to be discussed once invited.
Westmorland and Furness Council can sponsor Skilled Worker Visa applications for eligible roles. For more information, visit the government website.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
We are committed to workforce diversity and an inclusive culture. Disabled applicants meeting the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview. We also offer guaranteed interviews for Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and individuals in care or care-experienced under 24 years old who meet the criteria.
#J-18808-LjbffrFinance Manager - WMF2210e in Carlisle employer: The Cumbria County Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With competitive benefits such as a robust pension scheme and enhanced annual leave, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful projects that enhance community sustainability. The diverse locations of Penrith, Kendal, and Barrow provide a dynamic work environment, allowing for flexibility and collaboration across various teams.
Contact Details:
The Cumbria County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager - WMF2210e in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial management practices and regulations relevant to local government. Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in this sector will help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Westmorland and Furness Council. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which you can leverage in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with budget preparation and monitoring in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed budgets in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Finance Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the key projects and initiatives under the Thriving Places Directorate. Being knowledgeable about their goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your responses and show how you can contribute to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager - WMF2210e in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Thoroughly read the job description for the Finance Manager position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications needed to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in budget preparation, monitoring, and staff management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage financial processes and lead a team effectively.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Clearly outline your qualifications and any relevant memberships in your application. If you have certifications or training related to finance or accountancy, make sure to mention them as they can strengthen your candidacy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a tailored cover letter that connects your skills and experiences to the role. Express your enthusiasm for supporting the Council's objective of financial sustainability and how you can contribute to their goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cumbria County Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Finance Manager, especially in relation to budget preparation and monitoring. Familiarise yourself with the specific financial challenges and objectives of the Thriving Places Directorate.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As you'll be managing a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Highlight examples where you've successfully led a team, managed performance, or supported staff development.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to financial management, reporting, and accounting practices. Brush up on your knowledge of financial systems and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Sustainability
Given the focus on financially sustainable services, be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the Council's objectives. Share any relevant experiences or ideas that align with their commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
