At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial governance and shape organisational operations for impactful service delivery.
- Company: Westminster City Council, a key player in public life with strong foundations.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a real impact and work alongside experienced colleagues.
- Other info: A role that offers visibility, challenge, and the chance to drive meaningful change.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and influence how resources support communities and businesses.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in complex organisations and strong financial leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
We are looking for an Executive Director of Finance and Resources to join Westminster City Council's Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Chief Executive. This is a broad and influential role at the centre of how the council operates. You will provide financial stewardship and lead wider services at a time of change, ensuring that strong financial management supports the council's priorities and day-to-day delivery.
Responsibilities
- As the Section 151 Officer, you will be responsible for financial governance and oversight, but the role goes well beyond this.
- You will help shape how the organisation works, making sure finance is closely connected to services and that decisions are informed, practical and deliverable.
- You will work closely with Members and senior colleagues, offering clear advice and helping to turn ambition into action.
- A key part of the role is building confidence across the organisation, strengthening capability and ensuring that finance adds real value.
- You will bring experience of operating at a senior level within a complex organisation, which could be in local government or in a similarly visible and demanding environment.
- You are a strong financial leader, but just as importantly you understand how organisations run.
- You are able to balance the bigger picture with delivery, and you are comfortable working across a broad brief.
- You build trust quickly and communicate clearly.
- You are pragmatic, calm under pressure and able to keep things moving, even when the environment is busy and sometimes unpredictable.
Westminster is unlike anywhere else. It sits at the centre of public life, with a level of visibility and complexity that brings both challenge and opportunity. You will be joining a council with strong foundations and clear ambition, working alongside experienced colleagues who are committed to improving how the organisation works and what it delivers. This is a role where you can have a real impact, shaping how resources are used and supporting better outcomes for the people, communities and businesses of Westminster. If that appeals, we would be glad to hear from you.
Qualifications / Experience
- Experience operating at a senior level within a complex organisation, which could be local government or a similarly visible and demanding environment.
- Strong financial leadership with the ability to balance the bigger picture with delivery and to work across a broad brief.
- Ability to build trust, communicate clearly, be pragmatic, calm under pressure and keep work progressing in busy or challenging environments.
Executive Director Finance and Resources in City of Westminster employer: Westminster City Council
Westminster City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to influence public life at the heart of London. With a commitment to professional development and a collaborative work culture, employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions that directly impact the community. The council fosters an environment of trust and innovation, ensuring that every team member can thrive while navigating the complexities of local governance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director Finance and Resources in City of Westminster
✨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.
✨Get Certified
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.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
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 Westminster City 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 Executive Director Finance and Resources in City of Westminster
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 Westminster City 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 Westminster City 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 Westminster City 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 Westminster City 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 Westminster City 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 Westminster City 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.
