Senior Business Partner

Senior Finance Business Partner (x2)

Rugby Borough Council | Flexible Day Rate | Hybrid Working

We are currently supporting Rugby Borough Council with the recruitment of two Interim Senior Finance Business Partners. These are exciting opportunities for experienced local government finance professionals who are looking for a role where they can genuinely make a difference.

Offering a flexible day rate and hybrid working arrangements, these positions require finance professionals who can move beyond traditional reporting and business partnering. You will play a key role in supporting services, challenging financial performance, identifying opportunities for improvement, and helping shape future financial strategy.

For the first few weeks, successful candidates will be expected to attend the Rugby offices for approximately 4 days per week to build relationships and gain a thorough understanding of the organisation. Following this period, attendance is anticipated to reduce to 2 3 days per week, depending on business requirements.

The Opportunity

This is far more than a routine business partnering position. The Council is seeking individuals who are willing to get under the skin of services, investigate complex financial issues, challenge existing practices, and work collaboratively with managers to drive better outcomes.

You will be a trusted adviser to Service Directors and Managers, helping them understand their financial position while providing high quality financial insight and support to senior leadership.

With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the horizon, this is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful organisational change and leave a lasting impact.

Essential Requirements

Fully qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent)
Recent and significant experience within a District or Borough Council environment
Strong business partnering experience within local government
Ability to influence and challenge stakeholders at all levels
Hands on, proactive approach with strong analytical skills
Experience identifying issues, implementing solutions, and driving financial improvement

Key Responsibilities

Develop a detailed understanding of assigned service areas
Build strong relationships with Service Directors and Managers
Identify financial risks, pressures and opportunities
Investigate and resolve complex financial issues
Deliver insightful reporting to the Deputy S151 Officer, S151 Officer and Senior Leadership Team
Develop robust forecasting processes and monitor financial performance
Analyse changing service demands and assess financial implications
Identify transformation and efficiency opportunities
Review areas of overspend and work with services to develop corrective action plans
Identify, quantify and deliver achievable savings opportunities
Lead on budget setting and full budget builds for assigned services
Contribute to the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS)
Produce monthly and quarterly financial reports
Complete Delta returns and associated reporting requirements
Undertake proactive horizon scanning to identify emerging risks and opportunities
Support wider finance and organisational improvement initiatives as required
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed