Executive Director of Corporate Services and Chief Finance Officer (S151 Officer)

Lead the Future of Peterborough

Peterborough City Council, a unitary authority, is dedicated to serving the vibrant and diverse community of Peterborough. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Matt Gladstone, the council has made significant strides in stabilizing its finances and structure over the past three years, bringing many services back in-house and laying a solid foundation for future growth.

Executive Director of Corporate Services and Chief Finance Officer (S151 Officer) | £151,000 - £184,000

We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Executive Director of Corporate Services and Chief Finance Officer (S151 Officer) to join our Corporate Leadership Team. This pivotal role is responsible for a broad range of services, including finance, internal audit, commercial partnerships, property, HR, IT and digital, communications, business intelligence and more. You will be the lead advisor to the Chief Executive and all Elected Members on all matters within their portfolio, ensuring robust financial management and strategic leadership.

Despite the financial challenges faced by the sector, the council has taken a proactive approach to addressing budgetary pressures, undertaking a city-wide consultation, “Shape Our City,” to engage residents in future service decisions. We are looking for a finance leader to continue this proactive approach, working with the Corporate Leadership Team to reimagine what we do, and how we do it, creating a financially stable, modern, and sustainable council for the future.

We will look to you to provide clear, compelling, and inspiring leadership across the Council, not just to your services, contributing to the delivery of the Council’s Purpose, Strategic Priorities, and Corporate Strategy. As the statutory Section 151 Officer, the role ensures robust financial management and advises on all financial matters.

As our S151 Officer, you will hold a recognised accountancy qualification and have significant experience working at a strategic level within Local Government already, with a proven ability and desire to lead transformational change and create innovative service models. We are looking for a candidate with a strong performance culture, excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills along with energy, positivity, imagination, and an inclusive approach to leadership.

We need someone that can make difficult decisions during challenging times; someone who can bring fresh ideas; and someone who can seize opportunities. With significant opportunities for investment, economic development, and regeneration in Peterborough, the new Executive Director should understand both growth and efficiency.

Join us in driving strategic vision and modernizing services to better serve residents.

Closing Date: Sunday 10th November.

For a confidential discussion about your suitability, please contact Frazer Thouard (07834 810 743) or Sandra Jones (07826 404 091) from our recruitment partners, GatenbySanderson.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.