Chief Finance Officer

Chief Finance Officer (CFO)

Location: Hybrid / RemoteGrade: Strategic Service Manager LevelSector: Local Government / Public SectorRelocation 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

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