Deputy Chief Finance Officer

Sellick Partnership; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Deputy Chief Finance Officer to lead and modernise the Finance function for two councils. This role involves strategic oversight of financial planning and driving innovation in processes. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with significant local government experience, ready to support transformation and provide expert advice.

Benefits

Flexible working environment

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant with significant post-qualification experience in senior local government finance.
• Proven leadership in financial planning and transformation.
• Ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead operations of the Finance function ensuring service delivery.
• Oversee financial planning, forecasting and strategy.
• Provide expert financial advice to external stakeholders.

Skills

Financial planning

Leadership

Political acumen

Public service mindset

Education

CIPFA, ACA, ACCA or equivalent qualification

Job description

Role: Deputy Chief Finance Officer

Location: Remote

Rate: (Apply online only) per day via Umbrella

Duration: 6 months

Are you a strategic finance leader ready to make a real impact across an exciting organisation? Our client is looking for a dynamic and forward-thinking Deputy Section 151 Officer to lead and modernise the Finance function, supporting the Chief Finance Officer and driving transformation.

About the Role

As Deputy S151 Officer, you will:

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Finance function, ensuring high-quality service delivery across both councils and their associated companies.
• Provide strategic oversight of financial planning, reporting, and the development of the Medium-Term Financial Plan.
• Drive innovation in financial systems and processes, championing digital transformation and continuous improvement.
• Support the councils' commercial agendas and build financial capability across the organisation.
• Act as a key advisor to senior leadership, Members, and external stakeholders, ensuring robust financial governance and value for money.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a high-performing, customer-focused Finance function.
• Lead on financial modelling, forecasting, and scenario planning to inform strategic decision-making.
• Oversee the production of statutory accounts, budget reports, and financial strategies.
• Act as a key client for financial systems, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and business continuity.
• Provide expert financial advice to key external stakeholders.
• Promote a culture of performance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

What We're Looking For

• A qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACA, ACCA, or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience in a senior local government finance role.
• Proven leadership in financial planning, reporting, and transformation.
• Strong political acumen and the ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders.
• A collaborative, forward-thinking mindset with a passion for public service and innovation.

Why Join Our Client?

• Be part of a progressive, values-driven organisation committed to delivering excellent services to our communities.
• Work in a supportive, flexible environment with opportunities for professional growth.
• Play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of two councils with ambitious plans for regeneration, sustainability, and digital transformation.

If this sounds like a role of interest to you, please reach out to Rebecca at Sellick Partnership or apply online and a member of the team will reach out.

Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances.