Finance Manager (Strategic Role – Lead Financial Reporting & Controls)
Location: West Drayton, London
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Salary: £58,296-£64076 (inclusive of London Weighting)
Hours: 36 hours per week
Benefits: 28 days holiday plus public holidays, Local Government Pension Scheme, Cycle to Work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme
About Us
West London Waste Authority (WLWA) is at a pivotal point in our transformation journey – and finance is central to our strategic future. We are looking for an exceptional Finance Manager to lead and evolve our financial reporting and controls, build resilient financial frameworks, and guide financial decision-making at every level of the organisation.
This is a leadership opportunity with real scope to shape how the Authority plans, invests, and delivers sustainable, cost-effective services for our boroughs. Public sector experience is highly desirable for this role.
Role Overview
Reporting directly to the Director of Finance and managing the Senior Accountant, this critical role oversees all aspects of financial reporting, compliance, and financial modelling for projects and programmes. You'll design innovative financial tools, manage budgeting and statutory accounts, and act as a trusted adviser to senior leadership.
This role is perfect for a qualified accountant with a flair for strategic insight and experience leading finance teams in complex public sector environments.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Financial Reporting:
* Lead on financial control across major projects and programmes.
* Develop advanced modelling tools to assess financial scenarios and return on investment.
* Interpret complex data to support senior decision-making and report regularly to SLT.
Budgeting & Accounts:
* Lead the annual budget-setting process and support long-term budget planning.
* Ensure delivery of the Authority's annual Statement of Accounts and compliance with all statutory deadlines.
* Monitor and report key financial KPIs to leadership and programme managers.
Audit & Compliance:
* Coordinate internal and external audit processes.
* Ensure robust financial governance and risk management across the organisation.
Data & Automation:
* Work closely with the MI Team to automate financial processes and build dynamic reporting tools.
* Drive innovation in digital finance transformation and performance reporting.
Leadership & Management:
* Line manage, mentor, and develop the Senior Accountant.
* Deputise for the Director of Finance and provide senior financial leadership across the Authority.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking a forward-thinking finance leader with strong technical knowledge, a commitment to public sector excellence, and a passion for continuous improvement. You will be adept at turning complex financial data into strategic insight, influencing decision-makers, and building financial capability across teams.
Essential Skills & Experience
* CCAB-qualified accountant (or qualified by experience).
* Proven experience in financial reporting, modelling, and budget setting in a complex or public sector environment.
* Strong working knowledge of statutory accounts, regulatory compliance, and audit.
* High-level Excel skills and proficiency with financial systems (e.g., ERP, Aggresso).
* Track record of simplifying financial complexity for senior non-finance stakeholders.
* Strong team leadership and mentoring experience.
* Commercial awareness and a proactive, improvement-focused mindset.
Desirable:
* Public sector finance experience.
* Knowledge of digital transformation in finance.
* Project management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2).
Why Join Us?
* Play a key role in shaping strategic finance within a collaborative local authority.
* Be part of a purpose-led organisation committed to environmental outcomes.
* Work with autonomy in a flexible and supportive culture.
* Enjoy a generous pension and benefit package.
* Access continuous development and leadership training opportunities.
If you're a finance leader looking for a new challenge and the opportunity to make a real impact, apply now and help drive the future of West London Waste Authority.