Join Southampton City Council and lead high‑impact financial services We are looking for a
Head of Operational Finance
to lead the delivery of high‑quality, customer‑focused financial services that support the Council’s priorities and financial resilience.
About The Team You will lead the Operational Finance Services, including Debt Management, Accounts Payable, Revenues & Benefits and Client Money Services. The service plays a vital role in protecting the Council’s financial integrity while delivering efficient and effective customer focused services.
About The Role As Head of Operational Finance, you will be responsible for ensuring robust operational financial services across the Council.
Responsibilities
Leading and developing large‑scale operational finance services that are customer focused and deliver value for money
Driving service improvement, efficiency, and transformation across operational finance
Ensuring strong financial controls, risk management, and regulatory compliance
Supporting directorates with operational financial advice and service delivery
About You You will be an experienced operational finance leader with a strong focus on service delivery and improvement. You will bring:
Proven experience leading operational finance services within a complex organisation
Strong understanding of financial controls, compliance, and high‑volume transactional environments
Experience managing and motivating large teams to deliver performance and continuous improvement
A track record of driving efficiency, innovation, and customer‑focused financial services
A listener and collaborator who works to meet customer needs and find shared solutions to challenges
What We Can Offer You Salary: The salary band for this role is £83,643 - £91,823. The starting salary is £83,643 with annual progression through the salary bands.
Benefits
Excellent
Death in service benefit of x3 salary, and optional salary sacrifice shared cost AVC (additional voluntary contribution)
Generous holiday 25–31 days, based on role and service
Flexible working options (role-dependent)
Family‑friendly policies - Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, Shared/Unpaid Parental Leave, Time off for Dependents
Training and development, including coaching and mentoring
Health and wellbeing support – Employee Assistance Programme, Menopause Pledge, Mental Health First Aiders, and access to a variety of staff networks
Veteran‑friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant
Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform
Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres
Sustainable travel benefits – low emission car scheme, cycle to work, season ticket loans
Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer
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