Head of Financial Planning

Head of Financial Planning

Location: Hybrid – Medway (part office-based, part home working)

Salary: £63,280 - £75,805 per annum, plus Service Manager Allowance of £5,769 per annum

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 37 hours per week

Interview Date: 31 July 2026

Applicants must hold a relevant professional accountancy qualification, preferably CIPFA.

Our Client is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Head of Financial Planning to lead a high‑performing team of approximately 25 finance and financial systems professionals. This is a pivotal senior leadership role responsible for coordinating and delivering the annual revenue budget process, driving robust financial planning, and providing strategic financial advice across the organisation. As a key member of the finance leadership team, you will champion a proactive, customer‑focused business partnering approach, supporting informed decision‑making and ensuring strong financial stewardship.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence strategic direction within a complex and evolving local government environment.

• Lead the annual revenue budget process and medium‑term financial planning.
• Coordinate balanced budget setting, identifying savings opportunities and managing financial pressures.
• Produce and present comprehensive budget and financial monitoring reports.
• Lead the Finance Business Partnering function, ensuring high‑quality support across all revenue services.
• Oversee revenue budget monitoring, forecasting, and statutory financial returns.
• Support the closure of accounts process and external audit requirements.
• Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, elected members, and leadership teams.
• Lead, motivate, and develop teams through organisational change and continuous improvement.

• Qualified accountant with significant senior‑level finance experience within local government.
• Strong strategic planning, budgeting, and financial management expertise.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to drive change, influence decision‑makers, and lead high‑performing teams.
• Highly motivated with strong attention to detail, accuracy, and service delivery.
• Experienced in leading teams through transformation and organisational change.