Interim Head of Finance – Local Authority (6 months)

About the role

This interim position provides strategic financial leadership for a local authority’s Place Directorate, covering services such as housing, regeneration, planning and transport. You will work closely with senior managers to ensure sound financial management and support transformation programmes over a six‑month period.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the finance business‑partnering function for the Place Directorate.
• Provide strategic financial advice and challenge to senior officers and service leaders.
• Oversee revenue and capital budget setting, monitoring, forecasting and reporting.
• Support delivery of a balanced budget and medium‑term financial strategy.
• Ensure robust financial governance, controls and compliance with local government regulations.
• Lead financial aspects of major capital projects, regeneration programmes and commercial initiatives.
• Manage and develop a team of finance professionals.
• Support year‑end accounts processes and liaise with external auditors.
• Contribute to corporate finance priorities and wider organisational objectives.

Required profile

• Qualified finance professional (CCAB/CIMA qualified accountant).
• Significant senior finance leadership experience within a local authority.
• Strong understanding of local government finance, revenue and capital funding frameworks.
• Experience supporting place services such as regeneration, housing, property, environment, highways, transport or planning.
• Demonstrable experience of budget management in large, complex organisations.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication and presentation skills.
• Proven track record of leading change, transformation and financial improvement programmes.

Required skills

What we offer

• 6‑month contract, inside IR35.
• Day rate of £550‑£650.
• Hybrid working – two days per week on site.