Assistant Director Of Finance

Job Type: Senior interims

Job Role:

Support the Executive Director of Strategy & Resources in ensuring sound financial management, effective financial strategy, and high-quality administration across Barnet Council. Collaborate with the Finance Leadership Team, Members, and senior officers to deliver financial sustainability and meet strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Strategy & Management:

• Develop and implement the Council's financial strategy, including budget setting, medium-term financial planning, and resource prioritisation.
• Ensure compliance with statutory financial responsibilities (e.g., S151 and S114 duties).
• Deliver accurate financial systems, accountancy services, and treasury management to optimise resources and ensure cash flow sufficiency.

1. Leadership & Oversight:

• Provide visible leadership for finance functions, maintaining professional standards and excellent service delivery.
• Support the Council in producing error-free financial statements and securing unmodified audit opinions.
• Liaise with internal/external auditors and implement action plans based on audit reviews.

1. Operational Excellence:

• Ensure robust internal controls, risk management, and efficient financial processes.
• Deliver customer-focused services to management teams, budget holders, and external stakeholders.
• Monitor compliance with legislation, policies, and Council objectives to ensure value for money.

1. Strategy & Policy Development:

• Work with Members and management to align financial planning with the Council's strategic direction.
• Lead service improvement and performance monitoring to achieve financial sustainability and operational excellence.

1. Customer Focus & Performance:

• Deliver outstanding customer service and ensure continuous improvement in outsourced and internal finance functions.
• Self-assess and address key lines of enquiry from external inspections.

Staff & Budget Responsibility:

• Approximately 40 staff plus contract management of external audit and system providers.
• Budget: Service budget

Additional Responsibilities:

• Promote corporate values (Caring, Inclusive, Collaborative, Learning to Improve).
• Ensure health and safety standards and equality in service delivery.
• Provide flexibility to adapt to evolving service needs.

This role requires exceptional financial leadership, collaboration, and a focus on sustainability to drive effective resource management across Barnet Council.

If you think you fit this role, please call Harrison on