Deputy Director of Finance – Financial Management & Strategic Planning

Deputy Director of Finance – Financial Management & Strategic Planning

We are seeking an experienced values‑led chartered accountant who can demonstrate excellent financial stewardship, compassionate leadership while balancing the operational and strategic demands of the broad portfolio of services in a large NHS provider.

With a focus on quality improvement, quality and safety, this role is for a finance leader who can consistently create a positive, productive culture that continually promotes finance staff development.

Reporting to the Operational Finance Director, and working alongside the Deputy Director of Finance – Financial Services, the successful candidate will deputise for the Operational Finance Director and demonstrate the ability to build credibility, inspire confidence and influence staff at all levels across our diverse services.

A forward‑thinking, innovative leader with experience as a senior finance professional in a large, complex organisation and proven ability to lead a Financial Management function.

Contribute to building a culture which is actively anti‑racist and supports the strategic framework. Lead people, drive vision, strategic mindset, clarity of purpose, and have a proven track record of successful financial leadership and management.

Responsibilities include:

• Strategic and operational development of the Finance Directorate and contribution to the Financial Strategy of the organisation and the Integrated Care System.
• Provide assurance to the Board of Directors and Trust Committees that internal financial processes reflect latest standards, national policy and recommendations from audits.
• Direction and management of the day‑to‑day finance function and collaboration with senior staff to develop and manage financial plans.
• Proactive management of key financial risks and issues associated with the delivery of strategic and operational plans, including mitigation actions and monitoring progress.
• Maintain appropriate financial systems and processes to enable strategic plans and manage change without destabilising business as usual.
• Promote relationships with key stakeholders and support the organisation’s anti‑racism and equality commitments.

At Mersey Care we strive to build on our values and beliefs to develop the potential of every workforce member. We aim to increase inclusivity and diversity and recognise the need to represent the communities we serve. This aligns with NHS England’s EDI Workforce Improvement Plan 2023 and the NHS Workplace Race Equality Standard.

We encourage applications from BME communities in support of positive action.

Provide day‑to‑day direction and management of the finance function, working closely with other senior staff within the organisation and the wider System to develop and manage plans. Ensure appropriate financial systems enable the implementation of strategic plans.

Proactively manage key financial risks and ensure appropriate actions are taken. Monitor and establish accountability on the overall progress of the financial strategy to ensure completion within agreed time scales. Manage change while maintaining business continuity. Actively promote relationships with key stakeholders.

We encourage applications from BME communities and are committed to positive action.

• CCAB or CIMA membership with a minimum of 10 years post‑qualification experience.
• CPD registration with professional body.

• Successful track record at a senior level.
• Experience working with Executive teams and Boards.
• Experience of strategic service planning and redesign.
• Experience leading and developing staff including qualified staff and senior management.
• Experience of effective partnership working with other organisations at a senior level, preferably across public and voluntary sectors.
• Capability to maintain financial control whilst supporting a devolved style.
• Expertise in financial management.
• Experience working under pressure and meeting deadlines.
• Work experience in a Mental Health Trust, Community Trust and with local authorities.

• Strong influencing and negotiation skills, presenting credible and…