Job Description
Role Overview
We are looking for a Head of Finance – Children’s Social Care to lead and manage the finance teams within the Corporate Finance Department. This leadership role will provide strategic financial support, advice, and guidance across a wide range of council services, contributing to effective decision-making and transformation initiatives. You will have direct involvement in shaping financial strategies, driving savings, and ensuring the efficient use of financial resources within Children’s Social Care and Education & SEND.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Children’s Social Care Finance Teams, providing comprehensive financial direction and support.
- Work closely with senior management to develop and implement financial plans, ensuring that the future service needs are reflected in the medium-term financial forecast.
- Provide financial leadership on business transformation projects, ensuring that robust financial information is used for decision-making.
- Ensure compliance with financial policies and support budget managers in managing the allocated resources effectively.
- Lead financial support as part of the DSG recovery plan, including working closely with the Education & SEND team to monitor savings and funding arrangements.
- Develop and oversee financial modelling for demand-led budgets, supporting accurate forecasts.
- Contribute to the statutory accounting process and engage with external audit processes.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government bodies and professional organisations.
Person Specification
- Qualifications: Fully qualified Accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA). Educated to degree level or equivalent.
- Experience: Significant experience in preparing budgets and final accounts for local authorities, as well as leading and managing financial functions in large multi-disciplinary organisations.
- Skills: Strong strategic thinking with the ability to manage complex financial systems, influence decision-making, and effectively manage resources. Exceptional communication skills are essential for working with senior stakeholders and external partners.
- Desirable: Experience in a similar local government setting or with services such as Social Care or Education.
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic and high-performing team within a significant public sector organisation. As Head of Finance, you will be pivotal in shaping financial strategy, influencing decision-making, and ensuring the council delivers high-quality services within its financial means. You will have the chance to drive transformation, improve services, and contribute to making a real difference in the community.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and motivations for applying to ViaR Recruitment via our website or directly to emmanuel@viar-recruitment.com.
This role is based in the UK and requires applicants to have relevant experience and qualifications, as well as a passion for making a positive impact within the local government sector.