Senior Finance Business Partner

About the Role:

Hastings Borough Council is looking for an experienced and strategic Senior Finance Business Partner to join our Finance Team. This is a key leadership role responsible for providing high-quality financial and management accountancy services to the Council, ensuring robust financial planning, budgetary control, and statutory compliance.

Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, you will manage the Finance Business Partnering team, oversee budget preparation and monitoring, and contribute to the Council’s overall financial strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the preparation of annual estimates, focusing on revenue services and the capital programme.
• Provide financial advice and support to budget managers, ensuring sound financial management across the Council.
• Produce and present monthly management accounts, identifying key trends and making recommendations.
• Lead budget setting and support completion of the annual statement of accounts alongside the Chief Accountant.
• Provide clear, accurate financial information for Council committees, working groups, and senior leadership.
• Act as Deputy Section 151 Officer, deputising for the Chief Finance Officer when required.

For a full list of responsibilities, please see the attached job description.

About You:

We are seeking a qualified finance professional (ACA/CIMA/ACCA/CIPFA) with strong leadership skills and significant experience in financial management. You will be highly numerate, a confident communicator, and able to present complex financial information clearly to a range of stakeholders.

Essential Requirements:

• Fully qualified (ACA/CIMA/ACCA/CIPFA) with post-qualification experience.
• Extensive experience in a finance and accounting environment.
• Proven experience in final accounts preparation, budget monitoring, and budget setting.
• Strong leadership experience, including the management of staff.
• Knowledge of public authority accounting requirements and procedures.

For the full requirements of the role, please see the attached person specification.

Why Join Us?

At Hastings Borough Council, we offer a dynamic and supportive work environment where your expertise will help shape the future of the borough. We are committed to professional development, flexible working, and employee wellbeing.

Our benefits include:

• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Flexible working options to support work-life balance
• Employee Discount Scheme
• Seafront office location with hybrid working opportunities

Join us and play a crucial role in securing the financial future of Hastings Borough Council.