At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial transformation and provide strategic advice to enhance Trafford's services.
- Company: Trafford Council, a vibrant community with a focus on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence major regeneration projects and shape the borough's future.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team dedicated to transforming services for residents and businesses.
- Qualifications: Proven financial leadership experience and a passion for innovation.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 77368 £ per year.
Lead our Financial Transformation. Trafford is a great place to live, work, learn and visit. A borough with strong communities, a proud cultural and sporting heritage, and a key role within Greater Manchester’s economic future. Our vision is simple and ambitious: a borough where all our residents, businesses and communities thrive. To achieve this, we are working across services and with partners to maximise the use of resources, close inequality gaps and utilise the borough’s potential. However, increasing demand pressures and costs mean that it is becoming increasingly challenging to deliver the services our residents deserve with the resources we have available.
As Director of Finance, you will report to the Chief Executive and play a central role in Trafford’s corporate leadership team. You will provide clear and trusted financial advice to the Executive, Committees, elected Members and senior officers, and contribute to Greater Manchester finance discussions through the GM Treasurers Group, helping the Council make lawful, transparent and sustainable decisions. This is an exciting leadership opportunity to influence across the organisation, strengthen our financial transformation plans and ensure delivery.
Whilst we have financial pressures, you will join a team built on strong foundations with robust oversight and governance in place, and work with a supportive leadership team. You will lead the three‑year Medium‑Term Financial Plan, improve value for money and long‑term resilience, and embed financial leadership early in policy, strategy, investment and service redesign decisions.
We are seeking a financial leader who is passionate about change, who will constructively challenge what we do through innovation, commercial insight and practical solutions, supporting directorates to manage demand and develop sustainable and innovative approaches, seeking a ‘best in class’ methodology. You will play a key role in the development of our investment management strategy and contribute to major regeneration activity, including the Old Trafford Mayoral Development Corporation and the Wharfside masterplan. This is a career-defining opportunity, and we want someone who shares our passion for transforming services and delivering for Trafford’s residents and businesses.
For an informal discussion, please contact our search partner, GatenbySanderson: Emily Lockwood or Philip Emms, or click Apply to visit our microsite. Closing date: 7th August 2026.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance (S.151) in Manchester
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
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Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Trafford Council. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance (S.151) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Trafford Council.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Trafford Council's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trafford Council
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Trafford Council.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Trafford Council will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Trafford Council employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
