Head of Finance - Public Sector

Job Description Audit and Risk Recruitment are partnering with a West London Council in the search for a Head of Finance - CS & Finance C01 based in Uxbridge, paying 700 per day inside IR35. This is a high-level interim assignment (Inside IR35) focused on leading the Service Finance & Business Partnering Division.We are looking for more than just a safe pair of hands; we need a financial strategist who can drive cultural change, manage demand-led budgets, and mentor the next generation of finance talent.The LogisticsRate: 700.00 per day (Inside IR35).Location: Uxbridge (Hybrid 2/3 days on-site required).Contract: Interim (Immediate Start).Key Deliverables & Scope1. Strategic Finance & MTFS: You will lead the financial modelling for demand-led budgets, using trend data to inform the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). You are the bridge between the Directorates ambitions and the Councils financial reality.2. Transformation & Savings: This role requires active involvement in business-led projects. You will ensure budgets are realigned to deliver savings targets and mitigate pressures, reporting on timing differences and shaping project outcomes financially.3. Business Partnering Leadership: You will move the culture toward a "self-service" budget management approach. This involves providing high-level advice to Corporate Directors and Heads of Service, ensuring they understand their accountabilities under Financial Standing Orders.4. Team Development: A unique aspect of this role is the coordination of the Corporate Finance training programme (graduate & apprenticeship schemes). You will be responsible for upskilling the wider service.Who fits this role? You are a CCAB/CIMA qualified accountant with significant local government experience. You have a track record of closing directorate accounts, managing external audit relationships, and, crucially, you have the gravitas to challenge Senior Management on savings delivery.

Created: 2025-12-13