Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer

Sevenoaks District Council is looking to recruit its new Strategic Head of Finance & S151 Officer on a permanent basis. Working across the whole organisation, you’ll have strategic oversight of the financial core of the Council, including the Council’s budget and the Council’s trading companies.

As the Section 151 Officer, you will play a key role in supporting the Council through its wider journey, including preparation for Local Government Reorganisation. Reporting into the Corporate Director of Customer, Digital & Resources you’ll provide advice on budget policy framework and have the authority to make decisions, ensuring they are all lawful and financially sound. In addition, you’ll take ownership of the final accounts process, overseeing the preparation of the statement of accounts and interpreting complex guidance.

At Sevenoaks, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your skills further by working with the Head of Internal Audit and to oversee the external audit process, ensuring that the Council works effectively and within best practice. You’ll also have the potential to hone your expertise by developing the Council’s financial vision and leading on a variety of projects from a financial perspective, assessing viability.

To be considered for the role you will need to be a fully qualified accountant with comprehensive Local Government finance experience, including the production of the statutory Statement of Accounts and budget and target setting and monitoring.

This role is a full time permanent role, with circa 3 days a week in the Sevenoaks office (the rest at home) and the package is circa £109,592.