Chief Finance Officer & Treasurer Leading into the future At a time of evolving challenges we see opportunities, we’re looking for a finance leader who can turn complexity into clarity and strategy into impact. Salary: Up to £75,147 (FTE) Working pattern: Up to 37 hours per week – to be worked flexibly. Operational Budget: Approximately £3.54m Reports to : Chief Executive and a member of the Leadership Team Team : Finance Manager, Finance Officer (procurement & contracts lead), 2 Finance Assistants About the Role We're seeking an exceptional Chief Finance Officer and Treasurer to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead all financial, procurement, and contractual matters across our organisation. As our CFO, you'll be the organisation's principal financial adviser with the authority and status to influence all material decisions. You'll provide professional leadership for governance, stewardship, and value for money, operating in line with CIPFA's five core principles for CFOs in local government. This is a pivotal role for a strategic finance leader who thrives in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment and is passionate about driving organisational success through excellent financial management. What You'll Do Strategic Leadership : Shape corporate budget setting and medium-term financial strategy as a full SLT member Provide scenario analysis and strategic insights to leadership, Shareholder Board, and external partners Contribute to 5-year strategic planning and 3-year business/financial plan development Financial Excellence Lead all accounting processes, budgetary control, and treasury management Develop commercial pricing models and cost-recovery methodologies for traded services Manage annual audit processes and statutory returns to HMRC, Certification Office, and other bodies Governance & Risk: Provide authoritative advice on finance governance, including reserves management and employer responsibilities Lead business risk identification with appropriate insurance and compliance measures Ensure full compliance with procurement regulations and legislative requirements Partnership & Growth: Support financial and business development for joint funding projects and grant applications Lead external engagement with elected members, local authorities, and public/private sector partners Deputise for the Chief Executive at regional and national meetings What We're Looking For Essential Qualifications & Experience CCAB Qualified Accountant (CIPFA preferred) or significant relevant experience Senior finance leadership experience in a large public or private organisation Proven track record in financial reporting and annual Statement of Accounts preparation Strategic planning and corporate performance management experience Deep knowledge of governance, risk management, and audit requirements Key Expertise: Capital finance and treasury management (Local Government environment advantageous) Grant management and diverse financial accounting approaches Procurement processes, partnership working, and complex contractual arrangements Financial systems implementation and process development Reserve management and pension liability administration Leadership Skills Strategic prioritisation and motivational presentation abilities Strong negotiation skills with commercial acumen Advanced data analysis and budgetary management capabilities Experience leading collaborative partnerships and complex stakeholder relationships Why Join Us? Strategic Impact: Shape organisational direction as a key Senior Leadership Team member Professional Growth: Lead a skilled finance team in a dynamic, evolving environment Diverse Responsibilities : Combine traditional CFO duties with procurement leadership and strategic partnership development External Engagement: Represent the organisation at regional and national level Complex Challenges: Work with diverse funding streams, joint ventures, and multi-partner arrangements Ready to Apply? If you're a strategic finance leader ready to make your mark in a senior role with significant autonomy and impact, we'd love to hear from you. If you would like a more detailed discussion about the role and the future of WME, please contact our Chief Executive, Rebecca Davis - r.davis@wmemployers.org.uk to arrange an informal discussion. Closing Date: Sunday 19th October 2025 Application Process As this is a pivotal role for WME we will be holding a comprehensive assessment process, and providing successful applications at shortlisting to spend time with WME colleagues at our Birmingham Offices. Assessment Centre - Monday 3rd November at our offices in the Jewellery Quarter The assessment centre will include various elements, like a technical interview, psychometric testing and written assessment, as well as an opportunity to meet the team and a values based interview. Final Interview - Monday 10th November at our offices in the Jewellery Quarter Your final interview will be with our Senior Leadership Team and the WME Management Board Chair / Vice Chair. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Please contact Lesley Shore - l.shore@wmemployers.org.uk if you require any particular adaptations to support you to fully take part in the process. Attached documents Job Description and Person Specification