About the job:

Finance Business Partner

Purpose of Role

Each Business Partner is responsible for implementing the business partnering function within a specific service area of the council. You will collaborate with service leadership teams to support, challenge, and assist with service plans and projects, as well as manage performance within the business partnering team.

The primary activity involves providing effective Business Partnering to the council and contributing to policy development, activities, and service improvements. You will also contribute to and matrix-manage a team supporting business partnering, financial planning, and accounting across partner organizations.

Business Partners ensure that finance staff deliver services efficiently and professionally. The role requires a fully-qualified accountant with theoretical and practical knowledge, preferably holding a CCAB or equivalent qualification.

The post must support council leadership at all levels and develop strategic responses to financial challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities

Proactively lead financial advice and support to the designated service area, focusing on delivering savings.

Ensure financial information is relevant, balanced, and appropriately communicated to decision-makers.

Work with services to ensure data accuracy and proper responses to system outputs.

Assist managers in managing their finances by providing information, tools, and training.

Manage and motivate staff through effective communication, guidance, and development.

Develop customer-focused self-service solutions to reduce support needs.

Advise Members, management, and senior staff on financial issues.

Support joint working and matrix management within oneSource.

Ensure effective financial support for programmes and projects.

Example Outcomes:

Accurate budget monitoring information.

Managers capable of managing their finances with minimal input.

Reliable reports based on sound financial analysis.

Financially supported programmes and projects achieving their objectives.

Critical Success Factors include delivering high-quality, value-for-money services, being customer-focused, continuous improvement, joint working, and investing in people and skills.

The post reports to the Strategic Business Partner and maintains key relationships with various directors, managers, and external partners.

Person Specification

Qualifications:

Fully Qualified Accountant (e.g., CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience with substantial finance background.

Experience:

Experience in local government/public sector finance and as a Finance Business Partner (desirable).

Skills and Attributes:

Strong communication skills, customer service orientation, results orientation, planning and leadership capabilities, commitment to equality and diversity, ability to motivate teams, operational management skills, and collaborative working abilities.

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