Head of Strategic Finance

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Job description
Lead the financial strategy that powers Bristol's future

The challenge

Bristol is one of the UK's most vibrant and innovative cities, with a bold long-term vision. Our strong financial management has helped us remain resilient through challenging times whilst delivering for our communities. As a core city council we are at the forefront of the local government financial landscape driving growth for the region whilst tackling the daily challenges of living within our means.

But there's more to do. We're working with partners to empower individuals, improve economic and social equality, and create healthier, more resilient communities-where life expectancy isn't determined by wealth or background. With ambitious capital and investment programmes, we're committed to supporting everyone who lives, works, and visits Bristol.

To help us deliver on these strategic objectives, due to retirement of the current post holder, we're recruiting a Head of Strategic Finance.

The role

Reporting to the Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer), you'll lead on all aspects of strategic and corporate finance. You'll influence strategy development, disseminate financial intelligence, and provide proactive advice to officers, Cabinet, Council Committees and Scrutiny to support informed decision-making.

You'll ensure a robust and effective financial controls and infrastructure is embedded across the council - enabling operational delivery while maintaining strong governance. Your remit will include:

• Leading the development of the Medium-Term Financial Plan, Capital Strategy, and Treasury Management.
• Overseeing financial statements and audit processes.
• Supporting commercial investment decisions with robust modelling and risk assessment.
• Developing the council's capital programme and funding strategy.
• Driving continuous improvement in financial systems and processes.
• Leading the council's insurance and risk management functions.
• Deputising for the Director of Finance when required.

This is a strategic leadership role with significant influence across the organisation and beyond.

About you

You'll be a fully qualified CCAB (or equivalent) finance professional with:

• Extensive post-qualification experience and a track record of strategic leadership.
• Deep knowledge of public sector finance, governance, and regulation.
• Experience managing complex financial systems and delivering innovative solutions.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, including working with elected members, auditors, and external partners.
• A collaborative, forward-thinking approach and the ability to lead high-performing teams.

You'll be confident navigating ambiguity, driving change, and contributing to a culture of excellence and inclusion.

The benefits

We're proud to be a city that's undergoing major change. Working towards shared goals, our people enjoy a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

You'll receive a competitive salary, flexible working options, generous holiday entitlement, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme. We also offer agile working practices, family-friendly policies, and a supportive management culture.

For further information please see attached the full job description and person specification.

To arrange an informal conversation with Andy Rothery, Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer), please contact andrea.james@bristol.gov.uk

Apply

To apply, please submit your CV along with a supporting statement that details how you meet the criteria within the Person Specification.

Closing date: 29th September 2025Interviews to be held: 8th/9th October 2025

No agencies please.

At Bristol City Council, we value having a workforce as diverse as the city we serve. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and particularly encourage applications from Women, Black and racially minoritised, and Disabled candidates who are currently under-represented in senior leadership roles.