Interim Section 151 Officer (Director of Finance)

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Council's statutory financial responsibilities, ensuring effective governance, compliance and robust financial controls.
• Provide strategic financial advice to elected Members, the Chief Executive and senior leadership team on budgets, financial planning and risk.
• Lead budget setting, treasury management, year-end accounts and external audit processes.
• Manage, motivate and develop the finance team, establishing clear objectives and promoting accountability.
• Build effective relationships with Members and senior stakeholders, communicating complex financial information clearly.
• Support organisational transformation and service improvements, promoting financial sustainability and continuous improvement.
• Provide calm, credible leadership during a challenging period, maintaining confidence in the Council's financial management.

Ideal Candidate

• Previous experience acting as a Section 151 Officer within a local authority.
• A recognised CCAB accountancy qualification, such as CIPFA, ACA, ACCA or equivalent.
• Significant experience leading and managing a local government finance function.
• Strong knowledge of local authority accounting, statutory financial duties and governance.
• Experience advising elected Members and senior officers on complex financial matters.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop teams effectively.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A resilient and measured approach, with the emotional intelligence to lead through financial and organisational challenges.