Chief Finance Officer (CFO)
Location: Hybrid
Grade: Strategic Service Manager Level
Sector: Local Government / Public Sector
Relocation Package Available
An ambitious local authority is seeking an exceptional Chief Finance Officer (CFO) to lead its financial strategy, strengthen financial governance, and drive high‑performing finance, revenues and welfare services that deliver real impact for local residents.
With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the horizon, this is an exciting moment to step into a role where change is expected, fresh thinking is welcome, and the organisation is actively looking for someone who will bring their own leadership style and make the role their own.
This opportunity is ideal for:
- A seasoned senior finance leader seeking a meaningful final career move, or
- An ambitious and talented Head of Finance ready to step into their first CFO‑level role with full strategic visibility.
A relocation package is on offer, making this a compelling opportunity for candidates willing to move for the right leadership challenge.
The Role
As CFO, you will:
- Serve as the Deputy Section 151 Officer, representing senior leadership at key officer and Member meetings.
- Lead all strategic and operational financial functions, ensuring strong financial management, robust budget controls, and excellent value for money.
- Drive the development of the Medium‑Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), capital and treasury strategies, and all revenue and capital budget processes.
- Oversee statutory accounts, external audit, and all required financial reporting.
- Provide leadership across local taxation, benefits and welfare services, corporate debt recovery, exchequer functions, treasury operations, VAT, insurance, and financial systems.
- Deliver confident, high‑quality financial advice to elected Members, supporting governance, scrutiny and corporate decision‑making.
- Build effective relationships across senior leadership, Members, auditors, partners and government bodies.
- Lead improvement and transformation initiatives, ensuring delivery against key milestones and service requirements.
- Hold strategic responsibility for revenue budgets in excess of £15 million, ensuring integrity and value for money.
About You
Essential Experience & Qualifications
- Chartered accountancy qualification (CIPFA, ACCA, ACA, etc.)
- A minimum of 2 years' experience as a Head of Service in finance, revenues, benefits and/or debt
- A strong track record of developing financial strategies and leading complex, multi‑disciplinary services
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, including briefing senior stakeholders and public forums
- Ability to balance strategic leadership with urgent operational demands
Leadership Strengths
- Inspirational leadership that motivates teams and builds a culture of accountability
- Politically astute, with the ability to navigate shifting policy landscapes
- Clear, engaging communication style able to demystify complex financial information for diverse audiences
- A commitment to fairness, equality and inclusive service delivery
- A personal leadership style you are ready to bring confidently into the organisation.
Key Relationships
You will report directly to senior leadership and line‑manage several Heads of Service across finance, revenues, benefits and debt. You will also work closely with Members, service directors, auditors, external partners, and central government bodies.
Working Environment
The role is based on a hybrid working model, with home‑working balanced with required on‑site attendance and evening meetings. Please note, this can be very flexible.
Application & Interview Process
- Deadline for CVs: Midnight on 29th March
- The organisation intends to move quickly
- Initial interview via Microsoft Teams
- Followed shortly after by a final face‑to‑face interview.
This efficient process reflects the organisation’s commitment to securing the right leader without delay.
Why This Role?
This is a rare and high‑influence role within a complex local authority — perfect for someone who wants to:
- Influence strategic direction during a time of sector‑wide change
- Shape long‑term financial sustainability
- Bring their own style and make a lasting mark
- Step into a visible statutory leadership role
- Relocate for a compelling next chapter (with a relocation package available)
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