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*Please note that the internal title for the role is Service Manager Accountancy - Finance Business Partner.

We are delighted to partner exclusively with Newport City Council in the search for a talented Head of Business Partnering and Financial Planning. Working in close collaboration with Newport City Council, we are running a dedicated campaign to identify and attract the best talent for this pivotal leadership role.
This unique opportunity allows you to lead financial strategy and operational excellence in a forward-thinking council committed to impactful community outcomes. Newport City Council are at the forefront of local innovation, offering a unique opportunity to be part of transformative plans that focus on economic growth, digital advancements, and community-centered projects. Their forward-thinking initiatives for the upcoming year include sustainable development, strategic partnerships, and cutting-edge technological investments.
Your new role

Manage and supervise Senior Finance Business Partners and their teams to ensure strategic financial oversight and implement a standardised operating model for effective financial services.
Lead the organization's strategic financial management, including the development of the Medium-Term Financial Plan, annual budget, and local tax strategies.
Act as the primary finance professional for the organization's transformation plans, ensuring they are strategically sound, integrated, and financially sustainable.
Oversee the daily operations and performance management of the Budget Strategy team, ensuring consistent high performance.
Ensure compliance with S151 statutory officer responsibilities, developing and maintaining internal financial policies and regulations, while aligning with external standards and best practices.
Drive the development of the Accountancy Service under the direction of the Assistant/Head of Finance, focusing on HR, workforce matters, and service provision to ensure quality accountancy support.
Build and maintain strong, independent relationships with senior officers and members, providing financial compliance advice, addressing challenges, and guiding financial governance.
Act as a financial authority on major organisational projects, ensuring financial controls and governance are integrated throughout.
Serve as the primary advisor on specialised financial topics, demonstrating expertise in relevant financial disciplines.
Oversee the preparation and delivery of financial and non-financial reports relevant to the role, presenting these to senior officers as necessary.
Support and deputise for the Assistant/Head of Finance, helping to achieve service objectives and acting as a deputy S151 officer in their absence.
Represent the Assistant/Head of Finance in various internal and external meetings, contributing as a key expert on financial matters.

What you'll need to succeed

Proven experience in a senior financial role, public sector experience is imperative
Relevant accounting qualifications (e.g., CIPFA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
Excellent analytical, organisational, and leadership skills.
The ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
Clear business partnering and financial planning experienceWhat you'll get in return

Up to £58,000 per annum with an increase next year
Hybrid/Remote working - 1 day in Newport
Clear progression in the next couple of years
The Local Government Pension Scheme - 23.2% employers contribution
Annual leave 26 days + 8 bank holidays (34 total)
The option to purchase up to one week of additional annual leave
Employee wellbeing schemes and childcare vouchers
Cycle-to-work and car lease scheme
Technology purchase scheme
Discounted gym and leisure membership
Pay advance facility, advance loans for sustainable rail and bus travel
What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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