Join us as we shape the Isle of Wight's future through strong financial stewardship and system leadership. We need a talented and experienced Service Director of Finance to join us and play a pivotal role in securing a resilient financial future for the Island. The role will also hold Deputy Section 151 Officer status working to ensure best practice in financial planning, monitoring and risk mitigation in the design and delivery of services " The Service Director for Finance plays a crucial role in turning strategy into impact for the Isle of Wight. This is an opportunity to lead finance services, strengthen sound decision-making, and build capability across the organisation, making a real difference for Island residents " - Wendy Perera, Chief Executive, Isle of Wight Council With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) announcing that the Island will be retained as a separate unitary authority, this is the perfect time to join us to take our local directives forward. With our unique geography and distinct service needs, this announcement ensures decisions continue to be made locally and services remain tailored to our residents. We are ready to move forward confidently, focusing on strengthening public services, supporting our economy, and championing the interests of our Island community. Join us and help secure a strong, sustainable financial future for the Isle of Wight. Focus areas will include lead and manage the Council's financial management services development and delivery of financial strategy and budget setting provision of strategic advice to Members, senior officers and project boards robust financial governance, assurance, risk management and financial oversight financial appraisal, due diligence and investment analysis for major strategic projects and commercial activity ensure financial benefits are clearly defined, understood, monitored and delivered financial oversight of Council owned companies and trading activity champion continuous improvement, innovation and modern financial practice lead, develop and motivate high performing professional finance teams maintain strong business continuity arrangements contribute to corporate emergency response arrangements We are looking for a qualified finance professional, experienced in finance leadership, with a strong track record in local government financial management who can engage, inspire and influence whilst sharing specialist knowledge in complex and politically sensitive environments. Required skills and experience include relevant professional finance qualification (e.g. CIPFA or equivalent) and the capability to fulfil the role of Deputy Section 151 Officer local authority finance, including budgeting, financial planning, control, accounting and governance evidence of leading strategic financial projects, business cases and investment proposals strong commercial awareness and a creative, solution focused approach to financial sustainability political awareness and the ability to influence and challenge at senior level clear commitment to developing people, championing professional standards and building inclusive, high performing teams This is a unique chance to take on a challenging leadership role, shaping the future of our island, in a fantastic coastal location surrounded by beauty, in a warm and welcoming community. Join and you'll also receive our staff benefits package including annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays! Local Government Pension Scheme discounted Solent ferry travel Island bus network discount cycle to work scheme staff parking permit scheme salary sacrifice scheme Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) discounted island sports and leisure gym membership national and local discounts and benefits schemes relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria) travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria)
May 23, 2026
Full time
Join us as we shape the Isle of Wight's future through strong financial stewardship and system leadership. We need a talented and experienced Service Director of Finance to join us and play a pivotal role in securing a resilient financial future for the Island. The role will also hold Deputy Section 151 Officer status working to ensure best practice in financial planning, monitoring and risk mitigation in the design and delivery of services " The Service Director for Finance plays a crucial role in turning strategy into impact for the Isle of Wight. This is an opportunity to lead finance services, strengthen sound decision-making, and build capability across the organisation, making a real difference for Island residents " - Wendy Perera, Chief Executive, Isle of Wight Council With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) announcing that the Island will be retained as a separate unitary authority, this is the perfect time to join us to take our local directives forward. With our unique geography and distinct service needs, this announcement ensures decisions continue to be made locally and services remain tailored to our residents. We are ready to move forward confidently, focusing on strengthening public services, supporting our economy, and championing the interests of our Island community. Join us and help secure a strong, sustainable financial future for the Isle of Wight. Focus areas will include lead and manage the Council's financial management services development and delivery of financial strategy and budget setting provision of strategic advice to Members, senior officers and project boards robust financial governance, assurance, risk management and financial oversight financial appraisal, due diligence and investment analysis for major strategic projects and commercial activity ensure financial benefits are clearly defined, understood, monitored and delivered financial oversight of Council owned companies and trading activity champion continuous improvement, innovation and modern financial practice lead, develop and motivate high performing professional finance teams maintain strong business continuity arrangements contribute to corporate emergency response arrangements We are looking for a qualified finance professional, experienced in finance leadership, with a strong track record in local government financial management who can engage, inspire and influence whilst sharing specialist knowledge in complex and politically sensitive environments. Required skills and experience include relevant professional finance qualification (e.g. CIPFA or equivalent) and the capability to fulfil the role of Deputy Section 151 Officer local authority finance, including budgeting, financial planning, control, accounting and governance evidence of leading strategic financial projects, business cases and investment proposals strong commercial awareness and a creative, solution focused approach to financial sustainability political awareness and the ability to influence and challenge at senior level clear commitment to developing people, championing professional standards and building inclusive, high performing teams This is a unique chance to take on a challenging leadership role, shaping the future of our island, in a fantastic coastal location surrounded by beauty, in a warm and welcoming community. Join and you'll also receive our staff benefits package including annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays! Local Government Pension Scheme discounted Solent ferry travel Island bus network discount cycle to work scheme staff parking permit scheme salary sacrifice scheme Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) discounted island sports and leisure gym membership national and local discounts and benefits schemes relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria) travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria)
We are seeking a visionary Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive to join our corporate leadership team and drive change to ensure we reach our goal of achieving a sustainable footing financially. The role includes the duties of Section 151 Officer, working to ensure best practice in financial planning, monitoring and risk mitigation in the design and delivery of services. " This is a pivotal leadership role at a defining moment for the Isle of Wight. The Strategic Director of Finance & Deputy Chief Executive will shape the Council's future, providing strong financial leadership, working closely with Members and partners, and delivering sustainable outcomes for Island communities. The challenge is significant, but so is the opportunity to make a lasting impact " - Wendy Perera, Chief Executive, Isle of Wight Council This is your opportunity to inspire change, champion financial resilience and build a sustainable future for our Island community. With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) announcing that the Island will be retained as a separate unitary authority, this is the perfect time to join us to take our local directives forward. With our unique geography and distinct service needs, this announcement ensures decisions continue to be made locally and services remain tailored to our residents. Our new Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive will have real scope and authority to implement transformation and change designed to address our financial challenges. To succeed, you'll need the skill and experience to navigate a complex and challenging financial environment. Focus areas will include financial policy, strategy and management all duties as the Council's statutory Section 151 Officer development and implementation of transformation and improvement plans management accounting and financial planning strategic procurement treasury management internal audit and risk assurance Local Government Pension Scheme We are looking for someone who can think commercially, innovatively and creatively about how funding is best deployed to support growth Required skills and experience include fully qualified CCAB accountant with substantial post qualification experience. evidence of continuous professional development sound understanding of the Local Government Act 1972, specifically Section 151, and financial regulations governing local authorities extensive experience of development and delivery of a medium-term financial strategy for a council with a gross budget exceeding £300m successfully delivery of a balanced budget for multiple consecutive years despite funding reductions. able to direct 'whole council transformation' to deliver significant efficiency savings. This is a unique chance to take on a challenging leadership role, shaping the future of our island, in a fantastic coastal location surrounded by beauty, in a warm and welcoming community. Join and you'll receive our staff benefits package, including: Annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays! Local Government pension scheme Discounted Solent ferry travel Island bus network discount Cycle to work scheme Staff parking permit scheme Discounted island sports & leisure gym membership National and local discounts & benefits schemes Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria) Travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria)
May 23, 2026
Full time
We are seeking a visionary Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive to join our corporate leadership team and drive change to ensure we reach our goal of achieving a sustainable footing financially. The role includes the duties of Section 151 Officer, working to ensure best practice in financial planning, monitoring and risk mitigation in the design and delivery of services. " This is a pivotal leadership role at a defining moment for the Isle of Wight. The Strategic Director of Finance & Deputy Chief Executive will shape the Council's future, providing strong financial leadership, working closely with Members and partners, and delivering sustainable outcomes for Island communities. The challenge is significant, but so is the opportunity to make a lasting impact " - Wendy Perera, Chief Executive, Isle of Wight Council This is your opportunity to inspire change, champion financial resilience and build a sustainable future for our Island community. With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) announcing that the Island will be retained as a separate unitary authority, this is the perfect time to join us to take our local directives forward. With our unique geography and distinct service needs, this announcement ensures decisions continue to be made locally and services remain tailored to our residents. Our new Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive will have real scope and authority to implement transformation and change designed to address our financial challenges. To succeed, you'll need the skill and experience to navigate a complex and challenging financial environment. Focus areas will include financial policy, strategy and management all duties as the Council's statutory Section 151 Officer development and implementation of transformation and improvement plans management accounting and financial planning strategic procurement treasury management internal audit and risk assurance Local Government Pension Scheme We are looking for someone who can think commercially, innovatively and creatively about how funding is best deployed to support growth Required skills and experience include fully qualified CCAB accountant with substantial post qualification experience. evidence of continuous professional development sound understanding of the Local Government Act 1972, specifically Section 151, and financial regulations governing local authorities extensive experience of development and delivery of a medium-term financial strategy for a council with a gross budget exceeding £300m successfully delivery of a balanced budget for multiple consecutive years despite funding reductions. able to direct 'whole council transformation' to deliver significant efficiency savings. This is a unique chance to take on a challenging leadership role, shaping the future of our island, in a fantastic coastal location surrounded by beauty, in a warm and welcoming community. Join and you'll receive our staff benefits package, including: Annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays! Local Government pension scheme Discounted Solent ferry travel Island bus network discount Cycle to work scheme Staff parking permit scheme Discounted island sports & leisure gym membership National and local discounts & benefits schemes Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria) Travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria)
Job Title: Interim Deputy CFO & Deputy s151 officer Location: Dorchester/Hybrid - note given the role, 1-2 days per week in the office as required for key meetings Start date: immediate Rate: Dependent on experience Inside IR35 Connect2Dorset are seeking an Interim Deputy S151 Officer for an initial 6 month contract. You will lead the Council's budget setting process working directly to, and with, the Council's Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer) and deputising for them. This is a key opportunity to play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial resilience and stability of the organisation during a critical period. Key Responsibilities: Support the Section 151 Officer in delivering robust financial management and statutory duties under the Local Government Act 1972. Provide strategic financial advice to senior management and elected members. Oversee the preparation the MTFP papers and reports for a gross revenue spend of c. 1bn. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, accounting standards, and best practices. Lead on financial risk management and value for money for a Council wide transformation programme savings and efficiency plans. Ensure the finance teams readiness for ERP (Oracle) implementation and oversee the development of a product team Mentor and support finance team members to ensure high performance and continuous improvement. This role will be part of the Council's corporate leadership team You will have: A proven track record of working effectively in a leadership role with exposure to S151 responsibilities. Experience leading on the development of the MTFP for a large local authority, translating emerging plans into deliverable budget options Experience supporting and driving Council wide multi-year transformation and change programmes working as part of a multidisciplinary team Desirable experience of preparing for implementation of a new ERP system (oracle) including change management and business process redesign. Experience of managing relationships with internal/external auditors and responding to audit findings. Highly developed communication skills and the ability to influence and negotiate across a range of diverse subjects and stakeholders, working with minimum supervision. Proactive-does not wait for things to happen-makes them happen. In depth understanding of local government finance regulations, challenges, and best practices. Fully qualified CCAB accountant (e.g. CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, ACA). Political sensitivity with an ability to make progress in complex policy areas and a strong belief in the value of local democracy and accountability. Commitment to the Council's values and behaviours and equal opportunity policy, with an ability to demonstrate personal leadership on the importance of diversity. Connect2Dorset is a trading style of Dorset & Kent Commercial Services LLP - A joint venture between Dorset Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Dorset is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Oct 06, 2025
Seasonal
Job Title: Interim Deputy CFO & Deputy s151 officer Location: Dorchester/Hybrid - note given the role, 1-2 days per week in the office as required for key meetings Start date: immediate Rate: Dependent on experience Inside IR35 Connect2Dorset are seeking an Interim Deputy S151 Officer for an initial 6 month contract. You will lead the Council's budget setting process working directly to, and with, the Council's Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer) and deputising for them. This is a key opportunity to play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial resilience and stability of the organisation during a critical period. Key Responsibilities: Support the Section 151 Officer in delivering robust financial management and statutory duties under the Local Government Act 1972. Provide strategic financial advice to senior management and elected members. Oversee the preparation the MTFP papers and reports for a gross revenue spend of c. 1bn. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, accounting standards, and best practices. Lead on financial risk management and value for money for a Council wide transformation programme savings and efficiency plans. Ensure the finance teams readiness for ERP (Oracle) implementation and oversee the development of a product team Mentor and support finance team members to ensure high performance and continuous improvement. This role will be part of the Council's corporate leadership team You will have: A proven track record of working effectively in a leadership role with exposure to S151 responsibilities. Experience leading on the development of the MTFP for a large local authority, translating emerging plans into deliverable budget options Experience supporting and driving Council wide multi-year transformation and change programmes working as part of a multidisciplinary team Desirable experience of preparing for implementation of a new ERP system (oracle) including change management and business process redesign. Experience of managing relationships with internal/external auditors and responding to audit findings. Highly developed communication skills and the ability to influence and negotiate across a range of diverse subjects and stakeholders, working with minimum supervision. Proactive-does not wait for things to happen-makes them happen. In depth understanding of local government finance regulations, challenges, and best practices. Fully qualified CCAB accountant (e.g. CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, ACA). Political sensitivity with an ability to make progress in complex policy areas and a strong belief in the value of local democracy and accountability. Commitment to the Council's values and behaviours and equal opportunity policy, with an ability to demonstrate personal leadership on the importance of diversity. Connect2Dorset is a trading style of Dorset & Kent Commercial Services LLP - A joint venture between Dorset Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Dorset is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
