Deputy Finance Business Partner (Children And Young People)

3 Month Contract With A local Authority

To provide high-quality financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and business partnering support to Children's and Young People's Services. The postholder will work closely with service managers and senior leaders to ensure sound financial planning, effective resource management, and informed decision-making that supports the delivery of strategic and operational objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide professional financial advice and support to managers across Children's and Young People's Services.
  


• Assist in the preparation, monitoring, and management of revenue and capital budgets.
  


• Produce accurate budget monitoring reports, forecasts, and financial analyses to support decision-making.
  


• Support the annual budget-setting process and medium-term financial planning activities.
  


• Identify financial risks and opportunities, developing appropriate mitigation strategies where required.
  


• Challenge and support service managers to ensure efficient and effective use of resources.
  


• Assist in the preparation of statutory returns, financial statements, and government funding submissions as required.
  


• Monitor service expenditure and income, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, policies, and procedures.
  


• Provide financial modelling, scenario analysis, and business case support for service developments and transformation projects.
  


• Support the closure of accounts process and contribute to external and internal audit requirements.
  


• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders across the Council and partner organisations.
  


• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the Finance Service and support the development of best practice financial management.
  


• Deputise for the Finance Business Partner where required.
  

Requirements

Qualifications

• Part-qualified or fully qualified accountant (CCAB/CIMA) or equivalent relevant experience.
  


• Evidence of continuing professional development.
  

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of local government finance, budgeting, and financial management principles.
  


• Knowledge of financial regulations, accounting standards, and public sector governance.
  


• Understanding of the financial challenges and funding arrangements affecting Children's and Young People's Services.
  


• Awareness of relevant legislation, financial controls, and risk management practices.
  

Experience

• Experience of providing financial support and business partnering services to operational managers.
  


• Experience of budget monitoring, forecasting, and financial reporting.
  


• Experience of analysing complex financial information and presenting findings to non-financial stakeholders.
  


• Experience working within a local government or public sector environment (desirable).
  


• Experience supporting budget setting and financial planning processes.
  

Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
  


• Ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively.
  


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  


• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
  


• Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial systems skills.
  


• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  


• Collaborative approach with a commitment to delivering high-quality customer-focused services.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Hybrid working – 1 to 2 days per week at Bracknell Forest Council, Times Square. During the initial onboarding period, attendance for most of the first week will be required to meet the team, with arrangements agreed in advance.
  


• Hours per Week: 37 hours
  


• Pay: Bi-weekly