Chief Officer Finance. Stirling Council

Job Description

Stirling council is changing, we are transforming what we do and how we do it so that we can meet the challenges and maximise the opportunities that lie ahead. At the very heart of this are our staff, we are building an organisation with the culture, technology and skills to match our ambitions within the rapidly evolving public sector landscape. We are looking for our next Chief Officer Finance to report into the Chief Executive. This is a strategic role within Stirling Council, working with Heads of Service, Chief Officers, Chief Operating Officers, and the Chief Executive, to lead and support the transformation of Council services, ensuring delivery against the Council's four strategic goals, and assuring the fulfilment of our principles and 'Think How' framework, through the effective and efficient management of financial resources. As Chief Finance Officer you will - • provide an effective and professional financial service to the Council, its Committees, and Services, and to provide sound financial stewardship and effective financial management of the Council's resources. • ensure adherence to the Council's Financial Regulations and, in accordance with Local Authority Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2014, maintain adequate and effective financial management arrangements, ensure that sound systems of internal control are maintained, keep adequate accounting records, and ensure that accounting control systems are observed. • prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Regulations for submission to the appointed external auditor and for consideration and subsequent approval by a Committee whose remit includes audit and governance functions. • develop short, medium and long term financial planning for both the Council and its partner organisations, including advice to the Council on the financial position of associated bodies/arms-length organisations. • prepare, maintain and monitor accounting policies, procedures and standards and provide advice and guidance to all Council services. • identify legislation, standards and requirements that impact on the Council, making recommendations to ensure the Council remains compliant, and progressive. • develop the Council's revenue and capital budgets and ensure ongoing monitoring of budgets across all Council services. • assist in developing Council strategy and policy, and contribute to the management of change, ensuring consistent, corporate approaches to service delivery and best value. • lead and manage Accounting Operations, Revenue and Benefits, Procurement and Payroll, and within these areas to set standards for continuous improvement and lead services to develop new ways of working, whilst adhering to Financial Regulations. You will be/have - • Qualified Accountant, with evidence of on-going continuous professional development in line with standards set by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). • Be a member of an accountancy body recognised by IFAC, qualified through examination, and subject to oversight by said professional body upholding professional standards and exercising disciplinary powers. • Significant experience of financial management in public services, or a setting subject to comparable governance requirements. • Excellent communication skills including effective negotiation and influencing with experience in presenting to a range of audiences and over a wide range of issues. For an informal discussion around the role contact Sarah Gracie at sarah.gracie@edenscott.com or 07999 421314 To apply please visit https://www.edenscott.com/employer/stirling-council Closing date - Monday 4th December at 23.59pm

Requirements

Under the provisions of the Local Government Officers (Political Restrictions) Regulations 1990 (as amended) senior manager posts are politically restricted. This means that you are barred from standing for election as an MP, MEP, MSP or Councillor of any local authority. There are also restrictions on you holding office in and/or canvassing for a political party. The Council will provide specific details of the restrictions imposed on you as a result of your employment with the Council.