Service Director of Finance

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)