Director of Finance, London Borough of Lambeth
(Deputy Section 151 Officer)
Salary: £122,110 to £137,405 pa in LW
Location: London (hybrid working available)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Lambeth Council is seeking a Director of Finance (Deputy Section 151 Officer) to lead and transform our finance function at a pivotal moment as the council moves to a new Target Operating Model, a key plank of our medium-term financial strategy.
This is an exceptional and exciting opportunity for a forward-thinking leader to make their mark, working with the new Corporate Director Finance, the new Chief Executive and the wider leadership team, to shape and deliver the Council’s financial strategy, fundamentally redesign our approach to financial planning, insight and management to ensure the Council remains financially resilient and delivers its ambitious 2030 Plan.
About Lambeth
Lambeth is a borough with social and climate justice at its heart. By harnessing the pride and power of our residents, businesses, and voluntary sector partnerships, we aim to tackle inequality so that every child gets the best start in life, and everyone can feel safe, thrive, and belong. Our vision is bold, and we need a dynamic finance leader to help us deliver on our promises.
The Role
As Director of Finance, you will be a key member of Lambeth’s senior leadership team, reporting to the Corporate Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer). You will be responsible for setting the highest standards across the finance function, delivering strategic and operational excellence, with value for money, the effective allocation of resources and long-term sustainability as your key drivers. You will have the opportunity to lead on key corporate priorities and programmes, shaping and influencing how the council will operate in the future.
Key responsibilities include:
* Leading the development and implementation of Lambeth’s financial strategy to align with the Borough Plan and Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS).
* Acting as the Deputy Section 151 Officer, ensuring that the Council’s financial systems and controls are fit for purpose and meet the highest standards of governance, transparency, and accountability.
* Overseeing statutory financial reporting, including the preparation of annual financial statements and budget setting processes.
* Delivering robust financial performance insights, analysis and appraisals to Members, senior leaders, and stakeholders, enabling sound and informed decision-making.
* Leading the Council’s procurement, treasury management, and investment strategies and functions.
* Developing innovative approaches to maximise income generation, improve efficiency, and ensure value for money.
* Driving a high-performance culture within the finance team through effective leadership, talent development, and workforce planning.
About You
We are looking for an experienced, CCAB qualified accountant with a proven track record of financial leadership already operating as a deputy s151 in the public sector. You will be looking to use this opportunity to enhance your leadership, knowledge and skills before your next step to become a s151.
You will bring:
* In-depth knowledge of local government financial planning, management and governance.
* A strategic solution-focused mindset with the ability to balance long-term financial planning with immediate operational needs.
* Demonstrable experience in delivering financial transformation and leading high-performing teams.
* Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at all levels and foster collaborative partnerships.
* A commitment to Lambeth’s core values of equity, kindness, accountability, and ambition.
Why Join Us?
At Lambeth, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on one of London’s most diverse and vibrant communities. We offer a collaborative and supportive environment where innovation is encouraged, and your leadership will help shape a brighter future for our borough.
We offer:
* Fantastic, modern working environment in the award-winning Lambeth Town Hall and Civic Centre buildings
* Competitive Salary
* 35 days annual leave dependent upon continuous service
* 5 Minutes from London Underground and excellent transport links into the centre of London
* Hybrid/Flexible working
* Cycle to Work Scheme (including City Bike Hire scheme)
* Attractive Local Government Pension Scheme
We are a Stonewall diversity champion; a Living Wage Employer and we guarantee to interview all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role.
Successful candidates will be asked to apply for a Standard Certificate from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Further information about the DBS can be found at this link.
In addition, you will also be required to undertake a Cifas check from the Fraud Prevention organisation.
Next Steps
If you are excited by the opportunity to lead financial transformation in a borough that prioritises social and climate justice, we want to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion please contact our recruitment partners at Allen Lane.
Jack Murphy: 07921 335 786 //jackmurphy@allenlane.co.uk
Philippa Watkins: 07921 336 643 //philippawatkins@allenlane.co.uk
Interested? Please click here to apply to our Recruitment Partner Allen Lane and provide your Supporting Statement and CV, explicitly evidencing how you meet the shortlist criteria marked with an ‘A’ on the job specification.
Job Description and Person Specification
Closing Date: 9 March 2025 at 23:59pm
Technical Interviews: w/c 17 March 2025
Final Panel & Stakeholder Panel: w/c 31 March 2025
The London Borough of Lambeth is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
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