Head of Finance – Place

About the role

Our client, a local government authority in South West England, is seeking a permanent Head of Finance for the Place directorate. Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will lead a finance team, oversee financial records, budgeting and statutory reporting, and act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Place finance team, ensuring accurate financial records and timely statutory returns.
• Set, monitor and report on budgets, producing Statement of Accounts and financial insight for decision‑making.
• Collaborate with budget holders, service leaders and other resource functions to deliver high‑quality financial services.
• Support short‑, medium‑ and long‑term financial planning in line with CFO directives.
• Maintain strong financial stewardship and compliance with CIPFA accounting code of practice.

Required profile

• Fully qualified CCAB accountant.
• Significant experience in a local government finance environment.
• Proven managerial experience, preferably within the Place directorate.
• Knowledge of CIPFA accounting code of practice.
• Ability to advise senior stakeholders and influence financial decisions.

Required skills

What we offer

• Permanent contract with a salary of £64,844‑£68,987 per year (LG pay award pending).
• Hybrid working – two days per week in the office.
• Opportunity to shape finance strategy within a public sector organisation.