Head of Financial Planning & Analysis

Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering Hybrid Working | Local Authority | Permanent | 37 Hours Per Week £63,280 - £75,805 per annum + £5,769 Service Manager Allowance Reed Finance is partnering with a well-established Local Authority to recruit a Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering. Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, this key leadership role will oversee the Council's financial planning framework, annual budget-setting process, Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) and Finance Business Partnering service. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance professional to influence strategic decision-making, support senior leaders and elected members, and help ensure the Council's long-term financial sustainability. The Role You will lead the delivery of the Council's annual revenue budget and MTFS, ensuring robust financial planning and effective resource management. You will also manage the Finance Business Partnering team, providing high-quality financial support, challenge and guidance across Council services. Key Responsibilities • Lead the annual revenue budget-setting process through to Council approval. • Develop and maintain medium-term financial forecasts and projections. • Assess the impact of Local Government Finance Settlements. • Support forecasting of Council Tax and Business Rates income. • Identify budget pressures, efficiencies and savings opportunities. • Produce budget, MTFS and financial outlook reports for senior leadership and Members. • Lead and develop the Finance Business Partnering function. • Oversee budget monitoring, forecasting and financial performance reporting. • Manage revenue year-end closure and support statutory accounts and audit requirements. • Ensure accurate completion of statutory financial returns. • Act as a trusted financial adviser to Directors, senior managers and elected members. About You You will be a qualified finance professional with significant leadership experience and a strong understanding of local government finance. Essential Requirements • Qualified accountant (CIPFA preferred; ACA, ACCA or CIMA considered). • Experience in a senior finance leadership role. • Strong knowledge of budgeting, financial planning and financial management within local government or a similar public sector environment. • Experience leading complex budget-setting and medium-term financial planning processes. • Understanding of Council Tax, Business Rates and local government funding mechanisms. • Proven ability to lead and develop finance teams. • Strong analytical, financial systems and Excel skills. • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. • Ability to present complex financial information to a range of audiences. • Commitment to continuous improvement and organisational change. What's on Offer? Salary of £63,280 - £75,805 £5,769 Service Manager Allowance Permanent position 37-hour working week Hybrid working arrangement Local Government Pension Scheme and benefits package Opportunity to work closely with the Chief Finance Officer and senior leadership team Lead an experienced finance team and influence key strategic decisions Reed Finance is acting as an employment agency on behalf of our Local Authority client. Apply today or contact Reed Finance for a confidential discussion.