Interim Section 151 Officer; Director of Finance

Rugby, United Kingdom | Posted on 15/10/2026

At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors. In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints.

Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions. Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs.

Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens. With an extensive database of over 1 million pre-screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well-positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.

Job Purpose

To provide strategic financial leadership and fulfil the statutory responsibilities of the Council's Section 151 Officer, ensuring sound financial management, effective governance and long-term financial sustainability across the authority.

The postholder will lead the Finance function through a challenging and high-profile period, providing expert advice to Members, the Chief Executive and senior leadership teams whilst ensuring statutory compliance, robust financial controls and effective stewardship of public resources. The role requires a highly experienced local government finance professional with exceptional leadership, stakeholder management and people management skills.

As a visible and influential senior leader, the Interim Section 151 Officer will provide stability, confidence and direction across the Council, supporting organisational transformation and ensuring informed decision-making during a period of significant change.

• Act as the Council's designated Section 151 Officer and fulfil all statutory responsibilities.
• Ensure compliance with local government financial regulations, legislation and governance requirements.
• Provide authoritative financial advice to Members, the Chief Executive, Executive Team and senior officers.
• Lead the development and delivery of the Council's financial strategy.
• Oversee budget setting, medium-term financial planning and financial forecasting.
• Ensure effective treasury management arrangements are in place.
• Lead year-end accounts processes and statutory financial reporting.
• Maintain robust financial control, assurance and risk management frameworks.
• Ensure financial governance arrangements remain effective and compliant.
• Lead engagement with external auditors, regulators and inspection bodies.

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Finance Service.
• Lead, motivate and develop finance teams and senior finance managers.
• Establish a high-performing culture focused on accountability, continuous improvement and service excellence.
• Support workforce development and succession planning.
• Provide clear leadership during periods of organisational change and financial challenge.
• Ensure effective performance management arrangements are in place across the service.
• Drive improvements to financial systems, reporting and business processes.

• Build strong and productive relationships with elected Members.
• Present complex financial issues in a clear and accessible manner.
• Support Members in understanding financial risks, opportunities and statutory obligations.
• Provide confidence and reassurance during financially challenging decision-making processes.
• Develop effective relationships with senior officers, partners and external stakeholders.
• Act as a trusted advisor on financial strategy, governance and organisational…