Service Director Finance

Faerfield Limited; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A public sector organization in Plymouth is seeking a Service Director Finance to oversee its finance function and ensure financial plans are robust. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with a strong background in public sector finance, effective in leading a large team and managing change. Experience in the private sector will be considered beneficial. This vital role will contribute to the council's financial success, with applications closing on 4 January 2026.

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant with an understanding of the CIPFA Code of Practice.
• Proven experience in managing finances in a public sector context.
• Strong leadership skills and a track record of delivering change.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the performance of a high-performing finance function.
• Support the Council in delivering financial objectives.
• Ensure financial plans are realistic and well-managed.

Skills

Qualified accountant

Management of large workforce

Public sector finance knowledge

Change and transformation leadership

Job description

Service Director Finance

Generations of inspirational people have left their mark on our famous city, and this is your chance to join them. We’re determined to make Plymouth one of the most vibrant waterfront cities in Europe, where an outstanding quality of life is enjoyed by everyone. The City Council plays a central and system-leading role in shaping Plymouth’s future; and while we’ve made significant progress in recent years, we know that there’s always more we can do to unlock Plymouth’s potential.

Strong and well-managed finances underpin everything we want to achieve. This role will be pivotal in overseeing a high-performing finance function, with resources deployed where they’ll make the biggest difference. It’s essential that annual (and longer-term) financial plans are realistic and robustly managed, and you’ll support colleagues at every level across the council to deliver this important responsibility. Under your leadership, the finance service will be recognised as one of the Council’s key success factors.

You must be a qualified accountant, with a comprehensive grasp of the CIPFA Code of Practice and all other relevant standards and regulations. System leadership skills, and effective management of a large workforce, are both essential. An experienced organisational leader with an impressive and varied track record, you’ll bring a distinctively commercial mindset and practical knowledge of delivering change and transformation. While your career may include some time in the private sector, candidates must demonstrate a current and sophisticated understanding of public sector finance, and experience of working collaboratively with elected members would be a definite advantage.

For more information and to apply please visit www.faerfield.co.uk / plymouth.

Please note this role closes at midnight on Sunday 4 January 2026.