Senior Finance Manager

As a key member of the Finance Management Team, this role involves contributing to the strategic direction and effective operation of the Finance Service, including the implementation, monitoring, and review of the annual service plan.

The post holder will lead and manage the Financial Management, Revenues, and Benefits team, ensuring the delivery of strategic objectives and strong resource management. This includes the Schools Finance Team and fulfilling deputy Section 151 Officer responsibilities as required.

• Monitor new legislation and best practices, ensuring compliance through appropriate policies and procedures.
• Advise Corporate Board and the Executive on financial and strategic matters.
• Provide leadership on corporate projects and represent the Council in public forums.
• Participate in strategic planning and implementation across the organisation.
• Contribute to the Council's Emergency Planning arrangements.

• Promote the Council's Corporate Values and Vision, providing clear direction for the service.
• Lead projects and initiatives, ensuring community engagement.
• Build positive relationships with Council Members and external partners.
• Drive equal opportunities, sustainable development, and community resilience within the service.
• Prepare and deliver annual service plans, focusing on continuous improvement and efficiency.
• Provide strategic advice on financial management, revenues, and benefits.
• Develop and present the revenue budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy.
• Ensure timely and accurate billing of business rates, Council Tax, and benefits.
• Seek opportunities for collaboration and process optimisation.

• Oversee recruitment, training, and development of team members.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety standards, financial regulations, and performance management frameworks.
• Embed risk assessment practices and customer service excellence within the team.
• Promote staff well being and professional development.

• Fully qualified accountant with significant post-qualification management experience (Essential).
• Commitment to continuing professional development (Essential).
• Management qualification or willingness to pursue one (Desirable).

• Proven senior management experience in a relevant service area (Essential).
• Track record of leading organisational change and implementing new structures and systems (Essential).
• Experience in financial strategy development, revenue budgets, and financial plans (Essential).
• High-level advisory experience with senior managers and board members (Essential).

• Strong knowledge of modern financial services, local government accounting, and legislative frameworks (Essential).
• Commitment to equality, sustainability, and community-focused policies (Essential).

• Strategic leadership and team direction skills (Essential).
• Strong problem-solving capabilities (Essential).
• Effective communication and relationship-building with stakeholders (Essential).
• Ability to manage resources, budgets, and projects effectively (Essential).

• Collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership.
• Commitment to customer service excellence and continuous learning.
• Adaptability to manage and implement change effectively.

• Public-facing role requiring confident communication in English.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings for Council meetings.

This role offers an opportunity to lead a dynamic team while contributing to the strategic financial governance of the organisation.