Head of Finance

Location: Ipswich, Hybrid (minimum 1 day a week onsite)

Are you a forward‑thinking finance leader looking to take ownership of a high‑impact technical finance function? This is an exciting opportunity to join a progressive public‑sector organisation on an ambitious transformation journey, playing a central role in strengthening financial governance, statutory compliance, and long‑term resilience.

We’re supporting a local authority embarking on significant organisational change, including preparation for a once‑in‑a‑generation restructure of local government services. As Head of Finance (Technical), you will help ensure robust financial management throughout this period of transformation while shaping a sustainable future.

As Head of Finance (Technical), you will lead the organisation’s technical finance activities, providing strategic direction and ensuring all statutory and compliance obligations are met. This is a senior leadership position with responsibility for:

• Providing strategic leadership on statutory accounting, treasury management, taxation, and financial compliance.
• Acting as a key financial advisor to senior leaders, committees, and executive members.
• Leading year‑end processes including the closure of accounts and preparation of the Statement of Accounts.
• Managing the Finance Manager and overseeing Technical Finance, Treasury, Insurance, Income and Payments teams.
• Ensuring financial governance, risk management, and compliance remain strong during organisational change.
• Identifying opportunities to innovate, improve processes, and enhance financial resilience.
• Keeping abreast of relevant legislation, standards, and sector developments.

We’re looking for a confident and collaborative finance leader with:

• A full CCAB qualification (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Strong people leadership skills and experience managing high‑performing finance teams.
• A track record of delivering high‑quality technical finance services in a complex environment.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• A proactive, solutions‑focused approach with the ability to drive innovation.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to adapt within a changing landscape.
• Experience in local government or the wider public sector (highly desirable).

Alongside a competitive salary, you’ll benefit from:

• Career average pension scheme
• Generous holiday and sick pay
• Subsidised parking and public transport discounts
• Free gym and swimming membership
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible and hybrid working
• A supportive team and positive workplace culture