Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering

About the role

This senior position leads the financial planning and business partnering function for a local authority in Kent. Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, you will shape the council’s medium‑term financial strategy, oversee revenue budgeting and provide high‑level financial advice to senior managers and elected members.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the annual revenue budget‑setting process and develop the Medium‑Term Financial Strategy.
• Produce financial forecasts for all funding streams, including Council Tax and Business Rates.
• Identify budget pressures, drive efficiencies and capture savings opportunities.
• Manage the Finance Business Partnering service, delivering strategic support across all service areas.
• Oversee revenue budget monitoring, forecasting, financial reporting and the closure of accounts.
• Ensure timely statutory returns, regulatory compliance and support external audit processes.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with senior stakeholders, service directors and elected members.
• Lead, develop and motivate a high‑performing finance team.

Required profile

• A recognised professional accountancy qualification (e.g., CIPFA).
• Significant senior finance leadership experience, preferably within local government or a similarly complex organisation.
• Proven ability to influence senior leaders and elected members.
• Demonstrated leadership in developing and managing successful teams.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel.
• Financial systems knowledge.

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape financial strategy for a forward‑thinking local authority.
• Influence key decisions affecting residents and public services.
• Collaborative senior leadership environment.