Head of Finance & Business Operations (12‑month FTC)

About the role

The Head of Finance and Business Operations will lead the financial planning and benefit delivery for the LCST programme, overseeing a £500m annual spend across logistics, commodities and services. This 12‑month fixed‑term role combines strategic forecasting, stakeholder negotiation and team leadership, with occasional on‑site presence in Bristol.

Key responsibilities

• Compile and validate the bi‑annual long‑term forecast of expenditure (FE) for services and commodities.
• Negotiate annual budget settings with the Authority, balancing FE and spending constraints.
• Lead forecasting, reporting and benefit‑share claim processes, ensuring timely delivery.
• Promote financial benefit enhancement across GRMS, storage, distribution, freight, commodity purchases and cost centres.
• Oversee delivery and measurement of benefit projects from launch to completion.
• Cost, price and approve change proposals.
• Produce monthly commodity spend reports and analyse impact on financial benefit.
• Provide analytical support to LCST leadership on ad‑hoc projects.
• Delegate tasks to two direct reports and a wider team of nine, fostering high performance.

Required profile

• Proven experience in financial modelling and data analysis within an operations‑facing finance team.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to partner with senior operational managers and executives.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Qualified with a professional finance body (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) – preferred.
• Background in mathematics, economics, science, business or finance.

Required skills

• Excel
• SQL
• Power BI
• COBRA
• Primavera
• MS Office