6 Month Contract with A Local Authority
Purpose of the Role
To provide strategic and operational leadership of the Combined Authority’s finance function, ensuring robust financial management, regulatory compliance, and transformation support as the organisation evolves post-devolution. This interim role is critical in maintaining financial stability and continuity during a period of significant change and system transition.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide expert financial planning, advice, and strategic insight across the organisation to inform decision-making and resource allocation.
* Lead on financial performance management and ensure full compliance with all relevant regulatory, statutory, and governance requirements.
* Oversee and enhance service-level agreements (SLAs) for finance-related services and support the consolidation of finance activity into a unified internal service.
* Deputise for the Assistant Director of Finance and the Director of Resources, representing the finance function at senior internal and external forums.
* Drive continuous improvement across finance operations, including reporting, controls, forecasting, and system efficiencies.
* Build effective relationships with key stakeholders including external auditors, elected members, partner authorities, and funding bodies.
Requirements
* Fully qualified accountant (CCAB-recognised body or equivalent) with substantial post-qualification experience.
* Demonstrable leadership experience in senior finance roles, preferably within the public sector or a similarly complex organisation.
* Strong technical accounting knowledge, with experience in preparing year-end accounts and managing external audits.
* Proven track record of managing budget cycles and developing financial strategy aligned with organisational objectives.
* Experience in financial systems implementation or transformation (experience with Oracle Financials is desirable).
* Excellent communication, interpersonal and influencing skills with the ability to work effectively with senior leaders, elected members, and external partners.