Service Director for Finance

Job Description

Service Director for Finance (Section 151 Officer)

Location: Plymouth (Hybrid / Flexible On-Site Presence)
Day Rate: Please state requirement when submitting
Duration: 3–6 months (Interim while permanent recruitment is underway)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Service Director for Finance on an interim basis. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for fulfilling the statutory duties of the Section 151 Officer, ensuring robust financial governance, and maintaining the highest standards of transparency and accountability across the authority.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience as a Section 151 Officer (S151) within a unitary authority.

• Strong financial leadership skills with the ability to advise at Chief Executive and Member level.

• Demonstrable experience in managing complex budgets, financial strategy, and statutory reporting.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.

Commitment

We offer flexibility regarding office presence — however, please state the candidate’s proposed on-site commitment in Plymouth (e.g. 2 or 3 days per week) when submitting CVs.

Additional Information

• The role will initially be offered on a 3–6 month basis, with flexibility depending on the progress of permanent recruitment.

• We are seeking someone available to transition smoothly into the Section 151 responsibilities without the need for internal delegation.

• Start and end dates are indicative and can be discussed with the Chief Executive during initial conversations.

To Apply:
Please submit your CV, proposed on-site availability, and day rate expectations for consideration.