Deputy CFO & Deputy S151 Officer
Location: Dorset
Contract: Temporary (6 months initial)
Rate: £750.00 – £900.00 per day umbrella // £659.61 - £791.42 per day PAYE inclusive // £588.57 – £706.18 per day PAYE exclusive
Start Date: ASAP
Contact: (url removed)
Job Description
Service Care Solutions are recruiting for a Deputy CFO on behalf of a Local Authority in Dorset to join the team on a temporary basis. Reporting directly to the Section 151 Officer, you will lead the Council’s budget-setting process and play a pivotal role in ensuring financial resilience, stability, and compliance during a critical period. This is a senior leadership opportunity at the heart of local government finance, providing strategic direction while deputising for the CFO.
Key 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 preparation of the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for a gross revenue spend of approx. £1bn.
Ensure compliance with legislation, accounting standards, and best practices.
Lead financial risk management and value-for-money initiatives across Council-wide transformation and savings programmes.
Support readiness for ERP (Oracle) implementation and oversee the development of a finance product team.
Mentor and support finance team members, fostering high performance and continuous improvement.
Act as a member of the Council’s Corporate Leadership Team, contributing to strategic decision-making.Candidate Criteria
CCAB/CIMA Qualified Accountant with extensive PQE
Proven track record in a senior leadership finance role with exposure to s151 responsibilities.
Extensive experience leading MTFP development for a large Local Authority, translating plans into deliverable budget options.
Strong background in Council-wide transformation/change programmes, working across multidisciplinary teams.
Great communication and management skills with the ability to lead a large teamIf you are interested in the role, or know of anyone who may be, please contact Greg at Service Care Solutions on (phone number removed) or email (url removed)
Service Care Solutions also offers a £250 referral bonus! So, if you know of anyone who would be perfect for this position and they are placed into work, you will receive £250 for the referral once their probationary period has been completed