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Chief Finance Officer (s.151)

Employer
Somerset Council
Location
Somerset
Salary
c£140k
Closing date
20 Feb 2025
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Job Details

Let’s start with the challenges. Like every local authority, Somerset Council is facing a tough financial situation. But we also have significant opportunities that others don’t – for example Gravity, the UK’s leading strategic smart campus, anchored by the 40Gwh Agratas Gigafactory; Europe’s largest construction site at Hinkley Point C; new rail services promoting connectivity across the county; plus of course the invaluable experience, expertise, assets, and networks of our five predecessor councils. As a new organisation, the Council has a unique culture and sense of possibility, and you’ll relish being part of our inspiring shared vision for Somerset.

This role will be at the heart of accelerating our progress towards building a flourishing and financially sustainable place that people choose. Your overall task will be to put in place strategic and operational financial systems that are fit for a better future, with the s.151 duties underpinning everything you do. We’ll also ask you to oversee corporate governance, procurement, risk management and reporting frameworks. As the principal adviser on all finance matters, including pensions, you will ensure the provision of a high-quality, robust financial framework and bring elected members and colleagues new, innovative thinking which advances our value for money approach.

We’re looking for highly experienced, innovative and resilient professionals who are ready to test themselves on the biggest stage. Fully CCAB qualified, you’ll have extensive knowledge and experience of local government finance, including legislation, best practice and emerging trends. You will bring high levels of commercial acumen and a nuanced, engaging approach to working with partners and stakeholders. Focused on cultivating a high-performance, cost-effective culture, you’ll leverage all aspects of the role to deliver outstanding outcomes.

If you’d like to arrange an informal conversation with Dawn Faulkner at Faerfield, please call 0121 312 3755.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.

Company

The Council’s duties and services

The Council’s duties and services are managed by the elected councillors (known within the Council as ‘members’) through its democratic structure.

In accordance with government legislation, the Unitary Council has:

  • Appointed a Leader of Council, who has formed a single party Executive of ten members (together they take key decisions and are responsible for the day-to-day running of the Council)
  • Five cross party Scrutiny Committees:
    • Scrutiny for Climate and Place
    • Scrutiny for Children and Families
    • Scrutiny for Adults and Health
    • Scrutiny for Communities
    • Scrutiny for Corporate and Resources
  • A Licensing and Regulatory Committee responsible for the Council’s licensing functions
  • A Strategic Planning Committee, along with 4 Area Planning Committees responsible for the Council’s planning and regulatory functions
  • A Health and Wellbeing Board involving representatives from several partners

The Unitary Council of 110 elected members is responsible for deciding the democratic arrangements for the Council, agreeing our policy framework and each year’s budget.

Company info
Website
Telephone
0300 123 2224
Location
County Hall
Somerset
GB

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