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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a transformative public sector organisation.
- Company: York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, shaping a brighter future for the region.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on regional priorities and support community development.
- Qualifications: CCAB accountant with senior leadership experience in financial management.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equality, diversity, and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 61400 - 71500 £ per year.
Salary: £71,425 - £80,216
Hours: 37 Hours
Contract: Permanent
Location: Northallerton, Hybrid Working
The Organisation
The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority was established as a new organisation in early 2024. It is a public sector employer with access to powers and funding to unlock transport and housing improvements, boost skills provision and help the economy transition to net zero for York and North Yorkshire. The Mayor also holds responsibilities in relation to Policing, Fire and Crime. Making the most of the combined strengths of the city region and rural powerhouse, the Combined Authority is a long-term commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. By working for us you will play a part in making positive changes, unlocking investment, supporting business and communities to thrive and creating new and better opportunities for people that live and work here.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced finance leader to take responsibility for the Combined Authority’s financial strategy and operations. This is a pivotal role that ensures robust financial planning, governance, and compliance to support informed decision-making and the effective delivery of regional priorities.
As Head of Finance, you will provide visionary financial leadership, developing and implementing medium and long-term financial plans aligned with organisational objectives and statutory requirements. You will oversee all aspects of financial governance, including budgeting, reporting, audit processes, and risk management, while advising senior leaders and elected members on the financial implications of investment proposals and funding strategies. This role also involves leading and developing a best-in-class finance and corporate services function, ensuring the organisation is equipped to meet current and future challenges.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership
- Develop and deliver financial strategies and plans that align with organisational priorities and statutory obligations.
- Provide expert advice on investment proposals, funding strategies, and risk management.
- Represent the Combined Authority in high-level interactions with government, local authorities, and key stakeholders.
- Operational Management
- Oversee financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and final accounts.
- Lead on project support including investment appraisals, financial modelling, and value-for-money reviews.
- Ensure compliance with all statutory and legislative requirements.
- Team Leadership
- Inspire and manage a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and customer focus.
- Take responsibility for recruitment, development, and performance management.
- Systems & Process Development
- Drive transformation through improved financial systems and processes.
- Ensure robust performance management systems and disaster recovery arrangements.
- Corporate Contribution
- Act as a key member of the directorate management team, shaping strategic direction and delivering organisational objectives.
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity across all activities.
Additional Key Responsibilities include:
- Provide strategic financial advice to the Mayor, senior leadership, and elected members on major programmes and investments.
- Lead the specification and transition of finance systems onto shared platforms with emergency services, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
- Oversee procurement and contract management, embedding value-for-money principles across all services.
- Develop and lead a high-performing finance team, fostering collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Represent the Combined Authority in external forums, including government departments and regional partnerships.
What you will bring
The role requires CCAB accountant (CIPFA preferred) with extensive senior leadership experience in financial management within large, complex organisations, ideally in the public sector. You will demonstrate exceptional strategic thinking, strong technical accounting skills, and a proven ability to develop and deliver financial strategies that ensure sustainability and compliance. Key strengths include stakeholder engagement, risk management, and the ability to lead organisational change. The role requires excellent communication and influencing skills, high-level analytical ability, and proficiency with financial systems such as Oracle and advanced Excel. A deep understanding of local government, devolution, and public sector finance regulations is essential, alongside a commitment to integrity, equality, and continuous improvement.
More details of our fantastic benefits and values can be found here: Careers at York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority: Work for us
To find out more about our organisation please visit: https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk
Head of Finance employer: York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority
Contact Detail:
York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might have insights into the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation’s recent projects and financial strategies. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. We want to see your application shine, so make sure to highlight your leadership experience and strategic thinking skills that are crucial for the Head of Finance role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the Head of Finance role. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a finance leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to inspire and manage teams. Share examples of how you've led teams to success in previous roles, as this will resonate well with us.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your achievements and qualifications, making it easy for us to see why you're the right fit for the job.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our dedicated campaign site. This ensures that your application is reviewed promptly and gives you access to all the information about the role and our organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with numbers but can also leverage them for strategic decision-making.
✨Understand the Organisation's Goals
Familiarise yourself with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s objectives and recent initiatives. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can align with their goals, especially around sustainability and community impact. This will show that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you’ve faced in financial management and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As this role involves leading a finance team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you’ve inspired teams, managed performance, and fostered a culture of continuous improvement. Highlighting your ability to lead will resonate well with the interviewers.
