Neway International are seeking a Strategic Director of Finance to join our client based with Cardiff Capital Region. Location: Sbarc | Spark, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ Hours: 37 per week Start Date: 02 February 2026 Rate: PAYE £55.00 per hour / Limited/Umbrella £72.86 per hour Work Pattern: 2 to 3 days in the office per week About the Client Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) drives economic growth, innovation, and long‑term prosperity across South East Wales. The organisation is committed to responsible stewardship of public funds, high‑quality governance, and delivering impactful investment programmes that support sustainable regional development. CCR values strategic leadership, collaboration, and a forward‑thinking approach to financial planning and resource management. The Role The Strategic Director of Finance (s151 Officer) will act as the Responsible Financial Officer for CCR, ensuring the proper administration of financial affairs in accordance with statutory requirements. This senior leadership role provides strategic financial direction, oversees stewardship of public funds, and supports the delivery of CCR’s long‑term economic and organisational objectives. The postholder will lead financial planning, risk, compliance, assurance, and commercial strategy, working closely with the Chief Executive, CCR Board, and regional partners. Key Responsibilities Enact the statutory role of Responsible Financial Officer (s151) for CCR, ensuring effective financial leadership across all major plans and programmes. Lead the development and delivery of CCR’s Medium‑Term Financial Plan, ensuring sustainable funding and alignment with strategic objectives. Shape and direct the Finance business unit, fulfilling requirements of CJC Regulations and supporting implementation of the Target Operating Model. Oversee the CCR Assurance Framework and ensure compliance with the UK Government Green Book and five‑stage business case model. Act as lead officer for internal audit interaction and support the development and operation of the Audit and Governance Committee. Ensure compliance with all financial and contractual policies, overseeing procurement and commissioning functions. Drive collaboration with s151 Officers across the 11 constituent authorities, sharing expertise and informing financial strategy. Act as intelligent client for outsourced transactional services, ensuring value for money and effective service delivery. Provide strategic financial advice to the Chief Executive, CCR Board, and key governance stakeholders. Promote openness, probity, and public accountability across CCR’s investment portfolio. Oversee financial aspects of ICT and CCR estate services, ensuring best value and robust procurement. Lead liaison with the Auditor General for Wales regarding preparation of the Annual Statement of Accounts. Build connections across the UK regional growth landscape to ensure CCR remains aligned with best practice and emerging opportunities. Provide strong senior leadership, modelling CCR’s values and fostering a culture of openness and psychological safety. Candidate Requirements Degree‑level education or equivalent, with evidence of continuous professional development. Chartered accountancy qualification. Significant senior leadership experience at board or executive level in the public or private sector. Proven experience shaping and delivering financial strategies that support corporate priorities. Strong commercial awareness and experience engaging with developers, investors, and universities. Ability to lead complex financial planning, risk management, and assurance functions. Experience working within politically sensitive environments and managing competing stakeholder interests. Demonstrable ability to deliver targets, prioritise projects, and lead organisational change. Strong understanding of sustainable development and strategic value creation. Ability to think and act strategically, providing innovative solutions to complex challenges. Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and support high‑performing teams. Commitment to equality, diversity, and organisational values. Resilient, solutions‑focused, and able to operate effectively in a dynamic environment.