OPCC Chief Financial Officer

• Chief Financial Officer – Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Wiltshire and Swindon
• Location: Agile Working (Home and Devizes)
• Salary: £85,245 – £90,273
• Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent

About Us:

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Wiltshire and Swindon plays a critical role in ensuring that the local policing service is effective, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the community. As part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding and improving public safety, we are seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our leadership team. This is a pivotal role in shaping the financial strategy and governance that supports the delivery of our policing and crime objectives.

The Role:

As the Chief Financial Officer, you will act as the Section 151 statutory Chief Finance Officer for the OPCC, ensuring that our financial administration is robust, transparent, and aligned with best practices. Reporting directly to the CEO of the OPCC, you will lead on all financial matters, including budgeting, financial planning, treasury management, and procurement. You will also play a crucial role in strategic decision-making, advising the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) on financial strategies, risk management, and governance issues. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of public sector finance, particularly within a policing context. You will be instrumental in ensuring that our financial practices not only meet statutory requirements but also support the long-term vision of the PCC and the operational needs of Wiltshire Police.

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial Leadership: Oversee the financial management of the OPCC, including the production of statutory accounts, budget setting, and monitoring, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations.
• Strategic Financial Planning: Advise the PCC on financial strategies to achieve organisational objectives, including the management of a gross revenue budget of approximately £150M.
• Governance & Compliance: Ensure that financial regulations and governance frameworks are adhered to and kept up to date, working closely with the Chief Constable’s CFO.
• Treasury & Capital Management: Lead the development of treasury management strategies, including capital investment plans, ensuring they are affordable, prudent, and sustainable.
• Procurement: Oversee procurement activities, ensuring compliance with all regulations and representing the PCC on the Regional Procurement Board.
• Internal Audit & Risk Management: Commission and manage the internal audit function, ensuring it operates effectively and in accordance with best practices. Provide strategic advice on risk management and safeguarding of assets.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Chief Constable, Joint Independent Audit Committee, and external auditors.

About You:

The ideal candidate will be a qualified member of a CCAB accountancy body, preferably CIPFA, with significant experience in managing large budgets within the public sector. You will have a proven track record of operating at a strategic level, particularly in politically sensitive environments, and be adept at leading financial planning, treasury management, and change programmes. Your experience will include:

• At least five years of senior financial management experience in a complex, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Extensive knowledge of statutory duties of a Section 151 Officer and relevant legislation.
• Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to inspire and manage teams.
• Experience in public sector procurement and treasury management.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial issues to a range of stakeholders.
• A high degree of political sensitivity and commitment to the principles of good governance and transparency.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on the financial health and governance of Wiltshire and Swindon’s policing services. You will be part of a dedicated team committed to enhancing public safety and ensuring that resources are used effectively and efficiently. We offer a flexible working environment and are committed to supporting your continuous professional development.

Closing date for applications is 15th November

Wiltshire and Swindon OPCC is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive working environment.