• The Finance Business Partner plays a critical role in providing strategic financial support, direction and challenge to one or more directorates.

• Working closely with senior leadership, the role ensures robust financial planning, management and reporting aligned with organisational goals.

• The post holder will translate complex financial data into actionable insight, support budget holders in delivering services within budget, and lead a small team to drive continuous improvement in financial processes.

• This position may also be aligned with capital and transformation projects, with a focus on delivering value for money.

• Provide high-quality financial advice to service directorates, supporting decision-making and budget management.

• Lead on financial reporting, monitoring, and forecasting for assigned service areas, ensuring accuracy and compliance with statutory and regulatory frameworks.

• Translate complex financial information for non-financial stakeholders, enabling informed strategic decisions.

• Coordinate or manage a small team of finance officers to deliver effective finance business partnering services.

• Contribute to the development of financial strategies, including support for savings, cost reduction and transformation initiatives.

• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, standing orders and relevant accounting standards.

• Support the delivery of service improvements and transformation projects from a finance perspective.

• Identify and manage financial risks, advising on mitigations and supporting the development of financial resilience.

• Act as a financial lead in project teams and attend senior management and member meetings as required.

• Promote best practice in financial management, driving continuous improvement and efficiency.

• Relevant accountancy qualification (part or fully qualified – e.g. CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience.

• Proven experience in a finance role within a large and complex public sector organisation.

• Strong understanding of local government financial frameworks, regulations, and statutory reporting.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to challenge and influence senior stakeholders.

• Strong analytical and technical skills, with the ability to interpret and present financial information clearly.

• High level of proficiency in financial systems and Microsoft Excel.

• Proven ability to manage budgets, contribute to financial strategies and support service improvement.

• Experience in supporting or leading a team to deliver financial services.

• Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA).

• May include responsibility for up to 3 direct reports.

• Some roles may require flexible working or travel between sites.