SEND HNB Finance Lead — Strategic 3‑Month Contract

CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD; Trowbridge; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority recruitment firm is seeking a Senior Finance Specialist for the HNB Sustainability Programme in Trowbridge. This role involves leading financial aspects of a £73m budget to ensure sustainability of SEND services. Candidates should have extensive local authority finance experience, particularly in the education sector. Responsibilities include strategic planning, financial analysis, and providing expert advice to senior stakeholders. Enhanced DBS clearance and occasional travel may be required.

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 work in a political environment and liaise with elected members and senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic financial planning and sustainability-focused financial management across SEND services.
• Provide expert financial advice to senior officers, Schools Forum, and elected members.
• Introduce robust financial controls, assurance, and monitoring processes for the HNB budget.

Skills

Local authority finance experience

Strategic financial planning

High Needs Block (HNB) finance expertise

Stakeholder management

Complex financial data analysis

Knowledge of SEND and local government regulations

Education

Degree-level qualification

CIPFA / CCAB qualification (desirable)

Job description

A local authority recruitment firm is seeking a Senior Finance Specialist for the HNB Sustainability Programme in Trowbridge. This role involves leading financial aspects of a £73m budget to ensure sustainability of SEND services. Candidates should have extensive local authority finance experience, particularly in the education sector. Responsibilities include strategic planning, financial analysis, and providing expert advice to senior stakeholders. Enhanced DBS clearance and occasional travel may be required.