Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer)

Somerset Council; England; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive local authority in the United Kingdom is seeking a Chief Finance Officer to lead financial strategy during a pivotal moment for the organization. This role involves driving a sustainable Medium-Term Financial Strategy, leading transformations, and enhancing financial capability. Ideal candidates are experienced S151 Officers or high-potential deputies with expertise in financial recovery and strong leadership skills. This opportunity allows for significant impact on the community and the economy of Somerset.

Qualifications

• Experienced S151 Officer or deputy ready for a strategic challenge.
• Proven track record in financial recovery and organisational improvement.
• Strong experience in Adults' and Children's Services preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive a sustainable Medium-Term Financial Strategy.
• Complete a major finance improvement programme.
• Strengthen financial planning and forecasting.
• Lead financial transformation.

Skills

Strategic insight

Collaborative leadership

Financial recovery

Transformation experience

Job description

Somerset Council is seeking an outstanding finance leader to become our statutory Chief Finance Officer (S151 Officer) at a pivotal moment for the organisation and the county.

Formed in 2023, Somerset Council serves one of the most diverse and distinctive areas in the South West – from Exmoor National Park and the Levels to world-leading energy and engineering sectors, vibrant market towns and globally renowned cultural assets such as Glastonbury. Our ambition is clear: to build a fairer, greener, healthier and more resilient Somerset.

The Role

This is a unique opportunity to lead the council’s financial strategy as we accelerate into purposeful, long-term sustainability.

Working directly with the Chief Executive, Members and the Executive Leadership Team, you will:

• Drive a sustainable Medium-Term Financial Strategy
• Complete a major finance improvement programme
• Strengthen financial planning, forecasting and business partnering
• Lead transformation

You will inherit a finance function that has already made strong progress. The task now is to embed excellence, raise capability and build a modern, insight-driven finance service that supports a high-performing council.

About You

We are looking for a technically strong, politically astute and values‑led finance leader who can combine strategic insight with visible, collaborative leadership.

We welcome applications from:

• Experienced S151 Officers seeking a major strategic challenge
• High‑potential deputies ready for a step‑up, particularly those with strong experience in Adults’ and Children’s Services
• Leaders with a track record of financial recovery, transformation and organisational improvement

Why Somerset?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial future of a young and ambitious council, influence major transformation at scale, and make a tangible difference for residents, communities and the wider Somerset economy.

If you are motivated by public value, strategic challenge and the chance to build something better, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Next Steps

For more information and to apply, visit: https://penna.com/jobs or click apply below

To arrange a confidential discussion, please contact our consultants at CIPFA Penna:

Andrew Tromans on 07805 226301 or at [e-mail] Kelly Ridley on 07709 512415 or at [e-mail] Closing date: Sunday, 1 February 2026

Somerset Council is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.