A leading public sector organisation in Scotland is seeking a Finance Operations Leader to oversee the day-to-day financial transaction processing and support the delivery of core finance functions, reporting to the Senior Finance & Procurement Leader. This is a key role within the finance team, ensuring robust financial controls, efficient operations and high-quality financial reporting. This hybrid role involves one day per week in the Alexandria office, offers a 35-hour work week and provides a competitive salary aligned with the Band D public sector pay scale. Key Responsibilities: Manage financial operations including accounts payable/receivable, cashflow, reconciliations and supplier payment runs Lead and support a small team of Finance Advisers, including providing cover during absences Support payroll processing and VAT submissions Oversee month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness Assist in the preparation of statutory accounts and liaise with external auditors Maintain and enhance financial controls, policies and procedures Collaborate with senior finance colleagues to deliver management accounts, budgets, forecasts and statutory reporting Drive continuous improvement and automation in finance processes Provide training and support to budget holders and staff on finance systems and procedures Support the implementation of a new finance system, including coding structure development Deliver financial advice and guidance across the organisation Essential Experience: Strong hands-on experience in financial processing (AP, AR, reconciliations) Proven line management capability Solid understanding of financial systems and ledger structures Experience in process improvement and automation Desirable Experience: Public sector finance experience VAT and payroll processing knowledge Involvement in finance system implementation Experience supporting year-end statutory accounts and audits Qualifications, Skills & Attributes: Part-qualified accountant or qualified by experience Proactive and collaborative approach Strong organisational and time management skills High attention to detail and accuracy Intermediate Excel proficiency Effective communicator with good written skills Analytical mindset with problem-solving ability Additional Requirements: Flexibility during peak periods Full UK driving licence Interest in sustainability and biodiversity For more information on the role, please contact Ally Deas at Rutherford Cross. Our client is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.