High Needs Block Sustainability Finance Lead

CRA Group Limited; Broxmore Park; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in the UK is seeking a senior finance specialist for the HNB Sustainability Finance Lead role. This position focuses on leading all financial aspects of the HNB Sustainability Programme, overseeing a £73m budget. The ideal candidate will manage strategic planning and financial analysis while collaborating with key stakeholders. Candidates should possess extensive experience in local authority finance and strong stakeholder management skills, particularly within Education or Children’s Services.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in local authority finance, preferably within Education or Children's Services.
• Proven track record in strategic financial planning, analysis, and budget management.
• Ability to translate complex financial data into accessible insights.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic financial planning and sustainability-focused financial management across SEND services.
• Maintain accurate HNB forecasts and ensure reporting compliance.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to enhance value for money.

Skills

Local authority finance expertise

Strategic financial planning

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Forensic analysis of expenditures

Job description

Overview

The High Needs Block (HNB) Sustainability Finance Lead is a senior finance specialist responsible for leading all financial aspects of Wiltshire Council's HNB Sustainability Programme. The role involves strategic planning, detailed financial analysis, and oversight of the £73m HNB budget to ensure financial sustainability of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) services across the county.

Responsibilities

• The postholder will provide expert advice to senior officers, Schools Forum, and elected members, contributing to programme delivery, transformation, and mitigation of HNB deficits.
• Lead strategic financial planning and sustainability-focused financial management across SEND services.
• Provide expert financial advice to senior officers, Schools Forum, and elected members.
• Maintain accurate HNB forecasts and ensure reporting compliance with the Education & Skills Funding Agency.
• Undertake forensic analysis of SEND expenditure and identify cost drivers and mitigation opportunities.
• Develop evidence-based financial dashboards integrating finance and activity data.
• Introduce robust financial controls, assurance, and monitoring processes for the HNB budget.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners, including DfE-led programmes, to improve value for money.
• Support operational and commissioning teams to ensure financially sustainable service delivery.
• Contribute to corporate change initiatives and promote innovation in financial management.
• Provide constructive challenge to senior managers regarding spend, policy, and service decisions.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in local authority finance, preferably within Education or Children's Services.
• Proven track record in strategic financial planning, analysis, and budget management.
• Expertise in High Needs Block (HNB) finance, including SEND funding, DSG conditions, and operational guidance.
• Experience leading complex, savings-driven programmes or projects.
• Strong stakeholder management, influencing, and communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex financial data into accessible insights for varied audiences.
• Knowledge of legislative framework for SEND and local government financial regulations.
• Experience in financial assurance, performance management, and value-for-money initiatives.
• Ability to work in a political environment and liaise with elected members and senior leaders.