Finance Manager/Deputy S151 Officer

Maldon District Council; Maldon; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional local authority is seeking a qualified Deputy S151 Officer to lead the finance team. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to financial planning and reporting while supporting the Chief Finance Officer. Ideal candidates have a strong background in local government finance and excellent communication skills, with the flexibility for remote working as required.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Local Government Pension Scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Salary sacrifice car lease scheme

Free parking

Discounted local gym membership

Payment of one annual professional fee (if applicable)

Range of work/life balance policies

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge and experience of local government finance.
• Ability to contribute positively to local government goals.
• Understanding of financial reporting and planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead the finance team and inspire high performance.
• Ensure transparent and accountable financial reporting.
• Support the Chief Finance Officer in financial planning.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Excellent technical ability

Results-focused

Education

Fully qualified accountant

Job description

Overview

This role provides remote and flexible working as well as working within the Council Offices, subject to business need.

We offer flexibility and remote working, but please only apply if you're able to work regularly from our office.

Greater Essex has almost 2m residents and local government spending of £1.3tn. We are reorganising, currently expecting new authorities to be in place in April 2028 – one of the biggest and most complex reorganisation areas in the country a once in a generational change in local government.

Maldon Council is part of this reorganisation and needs a skilled Deputy S151 officer to support the recently appointed permanent Chief Finance Officer.

Here at Maldon District Council we have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and innovative finance manager to lead the Council’s Finance Team. You will work directly to and with the Council’s Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer). You will inspire your team to achieve high performance and make a positive contribution to the delivery of our Medium-Term Financial Plan. This key role will give the right candidate the opportunity to get invaluable experience across a range of key areas within the Council. Maldon is in a great position being financially stable with big ambitions.

You will get

• an unparalleled opportunity to support a large regional economy as part of a once in a lifetime reorganisation,
• support in leading delivery of excellent business partnering and financial planning and analysis
• scope to develop your ability as a 151 officer of the future.

You will support the S151 by

• ensuring transparent and accountable financial reporting and planning
• leading the finance team, inspiring them to secure VFM for residents
• developing your own ability as a future CFO in a supportive environment

We are looking for someone who is results-focused with strong communication skills and excellent technical ability.

A fully qualified accountant with a in-depth knowledge, understanding and experience of local government finance, you fully understand the complexities of local government and are able to contribute positively to helping the Council successfully deliver its goals.

About this role

This is an exceptional opportunity. We are a supportive and forward-thinking local authority, in an area which boasts an enviable quality of life and stunning countryside, with good transport links. We promote a professional work environment with a focus on self-development, innovation, and collaborative working.

We offer flexibility and remote working, but please only apply if you're able to work regularly from our office. Some parts of the role need to be done on-site. Plus, we value in-person working and team meetings to stay connected and collaborate effectively.

If you are ready for the next step in your career, with an inclusive and supportive team, we want to hear from you. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact:

The recruitment for this role is being managed by Penna. Please visit their website directly here for more information.

Interviews

Interviews are to be held on 23 October 2025

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Salary sacrifice car lease scheme
• Free parking
• Discounted local gym membership
• Payment of one annual professional fee (if applicable)
• Range of work/life balance policies

Equality and recruitment information

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, culture and experience. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, sex, disability or marital status

Please note: All interview notifications will be sent via e-mail. Please ensure you provide an e-mail address so that we can make contact with you. If email is not suitable to you because of additional needs, please make us aware so we can support you through this process fairly on 01621 854477.

Unfortunately, due to the number of applications we receive, we are unable to respond to all applications. Therefore, should you not hear from us within 3 weeks of the closing date, please assume you have been unsuccessful.