Interim Finance Lead

Critical Project Resourcing Ltd; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 198,000; Full time

Job summary

A Local Authority seeks an experienced Interim Finance Lead for a hybrid contract role in Newbury. This pivotal position will provide leadership in financial governance, guide through organisational changes, and ensure compliance with local government standards. Ideal candidates will be fully qualified accountants with extensive experience in transformation within public sector finance.

Qualifications

• Fully qualified accountant with significant post-qualification experience.
• Experience leading transformation and change programmes in public sector.
• Knowledge of Local Government Accounting Framework and local taxation.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of financial strategies.
• Provide expert financial and budgetary management advice.
• Drive organisational change and oversee finance service delivery.

Skills

Financial governance

Strategic planning

Value-driven decision-making

Consultative engagement

Education

CIPFA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA qualification

Job description

Interim Finance Lead – Newbury/Hybrid – £850 a day (Umbrella)

A Local Authority is seeking an experienced Interim Finance Lead to join their senior leadership team on a contract basis. This high-level role will support the council through a period of organisational change, ensuring strong financial governance, strategic planning, and value-driven decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead the development and implementation of financial strategies that ensure value for money and align with corporate objectives.
- Provide expert financial and budgetary management advice to senior stakeholders across the organisation.
- Drive and support significant organisational change, including new operating models, systems, and structures.
- Oversee the delivery of a modern, responsive finance service that supports the council’s operational and strategic goals.
- Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards relevant to local government.
- Engage with partners and stakeholders to ensure collaborative, informed decision-making.

Essential Requirements:

- Fully qualified accountant (e.g. CIPFA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with significant post-qualification experience in senior roles.
- Demonstrable experience of leading successful transformation and change programmes within public sector or complex service environments.
- Proven experience in managing complex financial portfolios and delivering effective financial oversight.
- Strong understanding of the Local Government Accounting Framework and local taxation systems.
- In-depth knowledge of current and emerging issues affecting local government finance, including legislative and policy developments.