Interim Head of Finance

Are you seeking your next interim position within the local goverment sector? We have a rewarding position available for an Interim Head of Finance within Stoke on Trent.

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Interim Head of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership within a forward-thinking local authority. Reporting directly to the Section 151 Officer, you will play a key role in ensuring strong financial governance, budget management, and statutory compliance across the council.

Location:

It is vital you can attend the office 2 days a week, or agree block attendances across the month.

This is a high-profile leadership position requiring a commercially minded finance professional with significant local government experience and the ability to operate effectively in a complex political environment.

• Support the Section 151 Officer in delivering the council’s financial strategy and statutory responsibilities
• Lead on budget setting, medium-term financial planning, and year-end accounts
• Provide strategic financial advice to senior leadership teams, elected members, and service directors
• Oversee treasury management, capital programmes, and financial reporting
• Drive financial improvement, transformation, and efficiency initiatives
• Ensure robust financial controls, governance, and compliance with CIPFA and local government regulations
• Manage and develop finance teams to deliver high-quality services
• Lead on external audit liaison and regulatory returns

We are looking for a qualified finance professional (CIPFA, ACCA, ACA or equivalent) with:

• Significant senior finance leadership experience within local government
• Strong understanding of local authority finance, governance, and statutory requirements
• Experience supporting or deputising for a Section 151 Officer
• Proven ability to lead teams through change and financial challenge
• Excellent stakeholder management and political awareness
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills