Wealden is a fantastic part of the UK in which to live and work. From the stunning coastline of the Seven Sisters in the South to the magical Ashdown Forest in the North, and much more in between, it remains one of the most popular Districts in the UK. The population is in excess of 160,000, the largest in East Sussex and in geographical area at 323 sq. miles, we are amongst the largest Districts in England. The Council is committed to sensitively managed growth to ensure we remain one of the top places in the country to prosper.

As a respected, forward-thinking local authority, Wealden places strong financial management at the heart of everything we do. We have strong finances and are embarking on some exciting commercial projects to ensure the Council is self-financing: our brand new crematorium in Horam will open soon; we are embarking on the regeneration of Hailsham Town Centre to deliver new retail, leisure and commercial premises as well as 289 new homes; and exploring other projects such as electric vehicle charging across East Sussex.  We are also the lead authority for the East Sussex Business Rates pilot of 75% rates retention.

Working with the Chief Finance Officer you will provide financial and budgetary advice to Members, Directors, Heads of Service and Senior Officers of the Council and act as Deputy Section 151 Officer. You will manage the Financial Services teams directing the provision of business support and management accounting services across the Council and prepare quarterly forecasts for cabinet, producing the Council’s annual statement of accounts and co-ordinating the preparation of the Council’s annual revenue and capital estimates and medium term forecasts.

You will need to be a qualified accountant (preferably CIPFA) with considerable experience of preparing management accounts, forecasts, budgets and final accounts, preferably in a local authority.  Experience of commercial activities undertaken by local authorities would be an advantage.  You will need good interpersonal skills, substantial experience of working with computerised financial information systems and excellent communication skills.

We offer an excellent package, including competitive salary, a relocation package, career average salary pension scheme, an employee benefit scheme offering a range of discounts and salary sacrifice schemes, flexitime and discounted leisure centre membership.

Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.