Interim Section 151 Officer; Director of Finance

Location:

Midlands-based District Council

Rate:
Up to £1,100 per day (Inside IR35)

Working Arrangement:
On-site 2–3 days per week

Duration:
Initial 6 months, with potential for extension

We are seeking an experienced and accomplished Interim Section 151 Officer (Director of Finance) to provide strategic financial leadership and strong people management across a district council during a challenging and high-profile period. This is a key leadership role requiring more than technical financial expertise. You will bring extensive local government finance experience, sound political awareness and the ability to lead, motivate and develop a finance function while navigating complex financial and organisational challenges.

As the Council’s designated Section 151 Officer, you will provide authoritative financial advice to elected Members, the Chief Executive and senior leadership team, ensuring statutory responsibilities are met and robust financial governance is maintained. You will be a visible and credible leader, providing stability, direction and confidence across the finance service.

• Fulfil the statutory responsibilities of the Council’s Section 151 Officer.
• Provide strategic financial advice to Members, the Chief Executive and senior officers.
• Lead budget setting, medium-term financial planning, treasury management and year-end processes.
• Maintain effective financial controls, assurance arrangements and risk management frameworks.
• Lead external audit engagement and manage relationships with auditors and regulators.

• Provide direct leadership and management across the finance function.
• Motivate, support and develop staff, fostering a positive and high-performing culture.
• Establish clear objectives, accountability and performance management arrangements.
• Communicate complex financial information clearly and confidently to non-financial audiences.
• CCAB-qualified accountant, such as CIPFA, ACA, ACCA or an equivalent recognised qualification.
• Significant experience leading and managing local government finance functions.
• Strong knowledge of local authority accounting, financial management, statutory duties and governance requirements.

Your leadership will help establish stability, clarity and confidence across the organisation while supporting sound financial decision-making and long-term financial sustainability.

We are an equal opportunity agency.