Summary
Join Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, the largest non-metropolitan fire and rescue service in England and help support the vital work that keeps communities safe across Devon and Somerset.
We are looking for a Senior Finance Officer (systems) to join our Finance team at our Service Headquarters in Exeter. We are introducing a replacement finance system during quarter 2 of this year so this is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in managing and developing our finance systems while supporting effective financial management across the organisation.
This position is available on a permanent basis, working 37 hours per week, with a starting salary of £38,220 rising annually to £40,777 (gross) per annum.
Find out more
As Senior Finance Officer you will lead the maintenance, development and training of the Service’s finance system (ledger), ensuring it operates effectively and supports accurate statutory reporting, including the Statement of Accounts.
You will also contribute to wider financial management and accountancy services, working closely with finance colleagues and budget holders across the Service.
Find out more:
Key responsibilities:
1. Maintain and support the finance system, ensuring day-to-day functionality and resolving user issues.
2. Manage system modules, user access levels an authorisation workflows.
3. Oversee month-end and year-end processes and produce reports for the Statement of Accounts.
4. Create and maintain financial and bespoke reports using reporting tools (e.g. XLOne)
5. Liaise with the system supplier to resolve issues and monitor progress.
6. Support system improvements, upgrades and ongoing development.
7. Provide training and guidance to finance system users.
8. Ensure the ledger structure reflects the Service’s organisational and budget holder structure.
9. Maintain clear user guides and procedures for finance systems.
10. Support the finance team with the accountancy services, including budget preparation and year end closedown.
11. Provide financial advice to budget holders in line with accounting standards and financial regulations.
12. Supervise and support relevant finance staff, ensuring effective workload planning and development.
What We Offer
Joining Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service comes with a fulfilling career, where you make a tangible difference every day. But that’s not all! We value our employees and offer an extensive benefits package, including:
13. Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance
14. A generous pension scheme for your future
15. Ample annual leave to recharge and refresh
16. Family leave policies that support your loved ones
17. Access to physiotherapy services for your well-being
18. Opportunities for professional development and progression
19. Free gym access and personalised fitness coaching
20. Support for eye care and wellness programs
21. Exclusive Blue Light Membership discounts
22. Affordable healthcare options through Benenden Health
23. Engaging sports and social groups for community building
24. Confidential counselling services and mental health support
25. Access to the Firefighters Charity for additional support
26. A cycle-to-work scheme to promote healthy commuting
How to apply
If you have the skills and experience to succeed as our Senior Finance Officer, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: 23:59 Thursday 26 March 2026
The successful candidate must, by the commencement of employment, have the right to work in the UK.
How to apply:
You will be required to complete an application form and submit a document detailing how you meet the following essential criteria taken from the Job Description and Person Specification.
27. Able to handle a varied workload within set deadlines.
28. Ability to work as a team player, as well as using own initiative.
29. Ability to manage complex issues and have sound analytical and problem-solving skills.
30. Experience in the administration of a computerised finance system.
31. Proven ability in the use of Microsoft Excel including statistical manipulation and reporting functions.
32. Evidence of self-motivation and innovation.
To help you complete this part of the application form please find attached below the word document “Essential Criteria for My Senior Finance Officer Application” for you to download and complete with your evidence for the above criteria. You can then upload this document where requested when completing your application.
Please note the evidence that you upload to your application should not exceed 2000 words in total (excluding titles).
Evidence submitted in relation to the essential criteria above will be used to shortlist any applications received.
Please note that the successful applicant will be expected to undertake an Enhanced DBS Check before being appointed to this role.
Our values
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment and adhere to the Services’ Safeguarding Policy.
Fire and Rescue Authority roles are listed in Schedule 1 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order and as such it is our policy to require all applicants to disclose any criminal convictions (both spent and unspent) including driving offences, cautions and reprimands.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority are committed to the rehabilitation of offenders, as such any positive disclosures will incorporate a reasonable and proportionate response.
As a Service and as individuals:
33. We are proud to help
34. We are honest
35. We are respectful
36. We are working together
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service recognise and celebrate the vast diversity of the local communities that we serve, and we aspire for this to be reflected in our workforce. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experience and beliefs, who share our values to consider working for us.