Bradford Council – Director of Finance

Salary: £96,603 – £102,287 (from 1st April)

Bradford is a place like few others. Steeped in a proud history of industrial, social and economic success.  Our people, our places, our unique countryside, our history and our talent are coming together – connecting us across the UK and around the world to new opportunities.  We know that we can build a better future for our people, and through them, for our special corner of Yorkshire.  Effective, long-term financial planning and management is key to this success.

We know that our finances will be under increasing pressure in the coming years – that’s life in the public sector nowadays.  We need to stay on top of this; develop our next long-term plan in the face of changing legislation and policy, support key services under real pressure to meet demand, be a leading voice for the District on the national stage and continue to resource district-wide priorities.

Our new Director of Finance will bring exceptional judgement to tough decisions, honed from experience of working in or closely alongside local government or a similar public service. Bringing well developed political antennae, you’ll be our s.151 officer and a member of the Corporate Management team.  Working closely with the Strategic Director of Resources, you’ll maintain and develop our strategy that balances managed risk and technical creativity.  You’ll say ‘yes’ by default but will know when to draw clear lines or offer alternative solutions to the myriad challenges we face.  You’ll build credibility through your clarity, strategic capacity, relationships and the confidence you create in the future.  You’ll be astute and resourceful, whether analysing a business case, a commercial investment or proposals for re-prioritising spending.  You won’t be stuck in the detail but will have the technical depth and insights needed to deep dive at the drop of a hat.

Overseeing a net budget of £360M, Bradford is the sixth largest metropolitan authority in England.   You’ll oversee all finance functions and procurement, with 95 staff.  Key priorities will be working closely with colleagues across the council to transform how services are delivered within a tight financial envelope, building a culture of financial accountability and ownership, ensuring an effective medium-term financial plan, supporting delivery of our wider District priorities, gaining the confidence of members and leading a well-respected, corporate service.

In reality this probably means you’re a current or Deputy s.151 officer (or equivalent in a comparable sector), with the track record to show you can step up into one of the largest Mets in the country.  You’ll have deep experience of success in an urban, diverse and dynamic environment.  We think you’ll love our straight-forward, grounded and sometimes challenging approach.  Come and find out what makes us so special. Full details about the role, the job description and person specification, the Council and Bradford district please visit the dedicated recruitment website TeamBradford