Contract Type: Permanent Working Hours: 37 hours per week Location: Civic Offices and homeworking Interviews will take place on 20 June 2025 Colchester City Council is committed to delivering high-quality and accessible services to residents, visitors and businesses. We are a local government authority providing a diverse range of public and commercial services across Colchester, the second largest district in Essex. We are seeking an outstanding Head of Finance and Deputy Section 151 Officer to provide strategic leadership and management of our corporate finance function. This is a pivotal role, responsible for financial planning, capital and revenue budgeting, treasury management, financial reporting, and statutory returns. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the financial future of a forward-looking, ambitious Council, and make a lasting impact on our communities. You¼ join a supportive and collaborative leadership team where your expertise will be recognised and valued. Duties of the role As Deputy Section 151 Officer, you will support the statutory duties of the Chief Finance Officer, deputising in their absence to ensure the Council maintains the highest standards of financial governance, resilience, and accountability. You will lead a highly skilled finance team, including the Chief Accountant, Treasury & Capital functions, Financial Planning and Budget Strategy, and Finance Business Partners. Working closely across the Council with senior leaders, Heads of Service, Members, and key stakeholders, you will deliver financial insight, robust financial management, and effective stewardship of public funds. You will take the lead on financial planning, budget setting, and development of the Medium-Term Financial Strategy, ensuring the delivery of a balanced budget. You will also attend and brief the Portfolio Holder and represent finance at Governance & Audit Committees, Cabinet, and other key meetings as required. Qualifications and skills required To be successful in this role, you will be a forward thinking finance leader who is CCAB, CIPFA, ACCA or CIMA qualified and have significant experience operating at a senior level within a finance function, preferably in a local government setting. A strong understanding of financial systems, local government finance, treasury management is essential as well as exceptional leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, empower, and motivate teams. You will also have a high degree of organisational and political awareness and the ability to influence and build strong relationships across a complex organisation. What we offer The Council encourages all employees to maximise their potential. You will be entitled to join an attractive pension scheme and will receive a generous annual leave entitlement, including two extra company holidays during the Christmas period. Other benefits include: Flexible working Gym, travel and online retail discounts Excellent training, development and progression opportunities If you are passionate about public sector finance, leadership, and making a difference, we would love to hear from you. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Paul Atkinson, Interim Head of Finance at paul.atkinson@colchester.gov.uk. Location : Colchester, Essex