Head Of Finance And Resources

Sheer Jobs Ltd; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an Interim Head of Finance and Resources to provide strategic leadership in financial management within the public sector. The ideal candidate will be a fully qualified accountant with substantial experience, capable of managing budgets and audits while driving process improvements. Excellent communication skills are essential for influencing at senior levels. This role offers an opportunity to shape the financial direction of the organisation following transformation.

Qualifications

• Substantial post-qualification experience in finance.
• Familiarity with financial systems transformation.
• Desirable experience in local government or combined authority settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead production of quarterly budgetary reports.
• Manage the year-end audit and production of accounts.
• Deputise for the Assistant Director of Finance as required.

Skills

Fully qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent)

Proven leadership in senior finance roles

Strong technical accounting knowledge

Experience with budgeting cycles

Excellent communication skills

Job description

Overview

The Interim Head of Finance and Resources will provide strategic and operational leadership of the Combined Finance function, ensuring robust financial management, compliance, and transformation as the organisation evolves post-devolution.

Responsibilities

• Lead production of quarterly budgetary reports and treasury management updates for Leadership, the Combined Authority (CA), and Audit Committee.
• Manage the year-end audit and production of the 2024/25 Statement of Accounts.
• Lead the budgeting process for 2026/27.
• Support the transition from Xero to Oracle as the CA's general ledger and financial management system.
• Provide expert financial advice, planning, and reporting across the CA.
• Lead financial strategy, performance management, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Oversee service-level agreements for finance-related services and support the development of a unified internal finance function.
• Deputise for the Assistant Director of Finance and Director of Resources as required.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes, and reporting.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Fully qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent) with substantial post-qualification experience.
• Proven leadership in senior finance roles, ideally within the public sector or a complex organisation.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including year-end accounts and audit preparation.
• Experience with budgeting cycles, financial strategy, and stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with financial systems transformation and implementation (Oracle experience desirable).
• Excellent communication skills and ability to influence at senior levels, including elected members.

Desirable

• Experience in local government or combined authority settings.
• Knowledge of CIPFA codes and public sector financial regulations.
• Change management and business integration experience.