Head of Finance (Deputy s151 Officer) – Plymouth City Council

Are you ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of Plymouth?

In anticipation of the current Service Director for Finance (s151 Officer) retirement in March 2025, we are seeking a Head of Finance (Deputy s151 Officer) to join our dynamic team, and joining us now will put you in a strong position to step up.

Working closely with the Service Director for Finance (s151 Officer), you will contribute to the continued development of our Finance team and help execute core financial strategies. Plymouth, known as Britain's Ocean City, offers a vibrant environment where officers and members collaborate seamlessly to deliver exceptional services.

Plymouth is more than just a city; it's a lifestyle. From the iconic Plymouth Life Centre to the immersive Box Museum & Art Gallery, you'll witness the direct impact of our work on the community.

This is your opportunity to step into a leadership position and make a significant impact in Britain's Ocean City.

As the Head of Finance (Deputy S151 Officer), you will:

• Deputise for the Strategic Director Finance at senior-level meetings, providing constructive challenge as needed.
• Lead compliance with financial strategies, policies, and plans to drive continuous improvement.
• Manage key financial projects to enhance the Council's financial management services.
• Lead engagement with the Capital Forum and oversee the production of financial statements and Treasury Management policies.
• Direct a team of professional accountants to deliver financial services to the highest standards.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the preparation and delivery of the Council's revenue and capital budget.
• Providing strategic leadership and management of Financial Accounting, Capital, and Treasury Teams.
• Making strategic recommendations on organisational structure and overseeing financial systems development.
• Facilitating informed decision-making by ensuring officers and members are aware of financial issues.
• Maximising returns from investing surplus cash flow and ensuring borrowing requirements are understood.

To be suitable for the role you need to be a qualified (CCAB) accountant and have:

• Extensive experience in financial management within the public sector.
• Strong leadership and management skills with a proven track record of driving performance improvement.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to build collaborative relationships.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to identify and implement innovative approaches to financial management.

If you're ready to make a difference and lead our Finance team into the future, apply now to be part of our vibrant community in Plymouth. Your expertise will contribute to delivering better value for money and efficiency across the Council.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to shape the financial landscape of Britain's Ocean City. Apply today and become a key player in Plymouth's journey towards success.

For an informal conversation or to find out more about the opportunity, please see our candidate pack or contact Jack Murphy on 07921 335 786 or by email Plymouth@allenlane.co.uk for details of how to apply.

Applications must be completed (full application consists of CV,  and supporting statement (no more than 2 sides) by 23.59pm on Friday 26^th April 2024.

Please note that if suitable applications are received before the deadline, we reserve the right to close the advert early.