Principal Finance Officer (Cumbria Combined Authority) - CCAREQ007 in Penrith

Salary: £48,738 - £49,817

Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)

Contract Type: Permanent

Shape the Future of Cumbria

Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter. The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria. As we establish the organisation, we are seeking a Principal Finance Officer to join us on our journey.

About this opportunity

We are seeking a Principal Finance Officer to play a key role in developing and delivering our emerging financial framework. You will provide high-quality financial support across a wide range of activities while helping to establish the systems, processes and controls required for a new organisation. This role requires a high degree of flexibility, with the ability to adapt to evolving priorities and work across different areas of the finance service as the Authority develops. A key part of the role will be supporting accurate budget forecasting to ensure financial plans remain on track and that the Authority meets its budget commitments. This opportunity is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys varied work, and is motivated by the chance to build robust, compliant financial operations from the ground up.

Who we are looking for…

• Public sector experience is not essential —we welcome candidates with strong transferable skills from any sector, particularly those with experience in regulated or audited environments.
• Experience working with financial systems and supporting process or system improvements.
• Strong understanding of financial controls, audit requirements and statutory responsibilities.
• Significant experience delivering core accounting tasks such as reconciliations, journals, monitoring and year-end processes.
• A solid technical background in budgeting, forecasting and year-end accounting.
• Excellent Excel skills (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, IF formulas).
• The ability to work under pressure, prioritise effectively and meet deadlines.
• Confidence in providing clear, objective financial advice to non-finance managers.
• High standards of integrity, confidentiality and professional conduct.

Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?

• Be part of a brand-new organisation with real devolved powers.
• Work with passionate partners across public, private and community sectors.
• Make a tangible difference to places, people and opportunities across Cumbria.
• Leave a lasting legacy by preparing the Authority for long-term success.

If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love to hear from you. Join us at the start of Cumbria’s journey – and help turn ambition into reality.

Would you like to find out more? For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the Role Profile.

If you have any queries or would like an informal conversation about this opportunity, please contact:

Agata Cymerman
Head of Finance – Deputy S73 Officer
Tel: 07386658840
Email: agata.cymerman2@cumbria-ca.gov.uk

Location

This role may be suitable for hybrid working, which means an employee works part of their time in the office and part from home. This is a voluntary and non-contractual arrangement between you and your manager, and your contractual place of work will remain your office location. If a hybrid working arrangement is suitable for both the role and for you, you will normally be required to spend a minimum of 40% of your working hours in the office. Our main office is at Redhills, near Penrith. We are also able to use offices of our partner authorities across the county to help fulfil this expectation. Please discuss any caring responsibilities, disabilities, or other circumstances that may affect your ability to meet this minimum office attendance requirement with the recruiting manager.

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 04/10/2026

Technical interview date: W/C 12/10/2026

Final interview date: W/C 12/10/2026

Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.