Head of Finance

Head of Finance

London/South East

Local Authority

£500 - 530 PER DAY

A large public sector organisation is seeking an experienced finance leader to oversee and direct its finance function, supporting a diverse portfolio of services and transformation projects.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategy, ensuring robust financial management, and providing expert guidance to senior stakeholders.Key Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead and manage finance teams, providing strategic direction and fostering a culture of business partnering and continuous improvement across a range of service areas.

Advise on financial strategy and deliver comprehensive support to senior leaders, enabling effective business planning and informed decision-making357.Support organisational change and transformation initiatives by ensuring timely, accurate financial analysis and modelling, and by realigning budgets to meet efficiency targets68.Guide directorates in developing robust financial plans that align with medium-term organisational objectives, and ensure these are reflected in financial forecasts16.Deliver high-quality financial advice and information to key decision-makers, promoting a self-service approach to budget management with ongoing support from the finance team57.Lead financial modelling for demand-driven budgets, collaborating with operational managers to provide accurate forecasts and inform strategic decisions78.Ensure compliance with statutory accounting requirements, external audit processes, and adapt to legislative changes impacting financial operations.Build and maintain effective working relationships within the finance function, supporting the production of strategic financial information and contributing to the ongoing development and training of the wider finance team6.Establish and nurture external relationships with key stakeholders, including community partners, regulators, professional bodies, and other public and private sector organisations, to drive continuous improvement and maintain sector expertise.

Person SpecificationProven experience in a senior finance leadership role within a complex, multi-disciplinary environment.Strong technical knowledge of financial management, accounting standards, and relevant regulations.Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage change, and deliver results in a performance-oriented setting6.Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with a track record of providing strategic financial advice at a senior level35.Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience8.This role offers the opportunity to influence strategic financial decisions, support major organisational projects, and drive the continuous improvement of financial processes in a dynamic and evolving environment.