Interim Head Of Finance

6 Month Contract with A Local Authority

To provide strategic and operational leadership of the Combined Authority’s finance function, ensuring robust financial management, regulatory compliance, and transformation support as the organisation evolves post-devolution. This interim role is critical in maintaining financial stability and continuity during a period of significant change and system transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert financial planning, advice, and strategic insight across the organisation to inform decision-making and resource allocation.
  




• Lead on financial performance management and ensure full compliance with all relevant regulatory, statutory, and governance requirements.
  




• Oversee and enhance service-level agreements (SLAs) for finance-related services and support the consolidation of finance activity into a unified internal service.
  




• Deputise for the Assistant Director of Finance and the Director of Resources, representing the finance function at senior internal and external forums.
  




• Drive continuous improvement across finance operations, including reporting, controls, forecasting, and system efficiencies.
  




• Build effective relationships with key stakeholders including external auditors, elected members, partner authorities, and funding bodies.
  

Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant (CCAB-recognised body or equivalent) with substantial post-qualification experience.
  




• Demonstrable leadership experience in senior finance roles, preferably within the public sector or a similarly complex organisation.
  




• Strong technical accounting knowledge, with experience in preparing year-end accounts and managing external audits.
  




• Proven track record of managing budget cycles and developing financial strategy aligned with organisational objectives.
  




• Experience in financial systems implementation or transformation (experience with Oracle Financials is desirable).
  




• Excellent communication, interpersonal and influencing skills with the ability to work effectively with senior leaders, elected members, and external partners.