Job Description
6 months contract with a local authority
Summary
* The Council is seeking an Interim Deputy S151 Officer for an initial 6-month contract. In this role, you will lead the Council’s budget-setting process, working directly with the Council’s Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer) and deputizing for them. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to the financial resilience and stability of the organization during a critical period.
Responsibilities
* Support the Section 151 Officer in delivering robust financial management and statutory duties under the Local Government Act 1972.
* Provide strategic financial advice to senior management and elected members.
* Oversee the preparation of the MTFP papers and reports for a gross revenue spend of approximately £1bn.
* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, accounting standards, and best practices.
* Lead financial risk management and value for money for a Council-wide transformation program, including savings and efficiency plans.
* Ensure the finance team's readiness for ERP (Oracle) implementation and oversee the development of a product team.
* Mentor and support finance team members to ensure high performance and continuous improvement.
* Participate as part of the Council’s corporate leadership team.
Essential Experience Required
* A proven track record of working effectively in a leadership role with exposure to S151 responsibilities.
* Experience leading the development of the MTFP for a large local authority, translating emerging plans into deliverable budget options.
* Experience supporting and driving Council-wide multi-year transformation and change programs as part of a multidisciplinary team.
* Desirable experience in preparing for the implementation of a new ERP system (Oracle), including change management and business process redesign.
Essential Qualification Required
* Fully qualified CCAB accountant (e.g., CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, ACA).
Additional Information
* Dorchester/Hybrid – 1-2 days per week in the office as required for key meetings.
* The role closes soon; apply ASAP.
Requirements
Council are seeking an Interim Deputy S151 Officer for an initial 6 month contract. You will lead the Council’s budget setting process working directly to, and with, the Council’s Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer) and deputising for them. This is a key opportunity to play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial resilience and stability of the organisation during a critical period.