Strategic Finance Business Partner (Banking and Systems)

Strategic Finance Business Partner (Banking and Systems)

Location: Norfolk PE30 1EX Hybrid Homeworking
Salary: Competitive, based on experience (Local Government Scale)
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Circa £60,000 depending on experience + Benefits

About Us
The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk serves a vibrant and diverse community with a strong focus on financial sustainability and high-quality services. We are looking for an experienced Strategic Finance Business Partner (Banking and Systems) to join the team and contribute to their financial excellence by leading critical areas such as banking, financial systems, VAT, and accounts payable/receivable.

The Role
As the Strategic Finance Business Partner, you will play a vital role in managing and improving the Council’s financial systems, banking operations, and compliance with tax and VAT regulations. Acting as a strategic advisor, you will support service managers, elected members, and directors of local authority-owned companies by providing expert financial guidance. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape financial processes while leading a team of dedicated finance professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor 2 direct reports, fostering collaboration and high performance.
2. Financial Systems Management: Oversee banking operations, cash management, and financial systems to ensure efficient and secure processes.
3. VAT and Tax Advice: Ensure VAT compliance and provide strategic tax advice for projects and transactions.
4. Accounts Payable/Receivable: Oversee AP/AR functions to ensure timely, accurate transactions and effective credit control.
5. Insurance Management: Manage the Council’s insurance portfolio, offering expert advice on policies and risk management.
6. Strategic Financial Partnering: Collaborate with service managers and local authority companies to provide financial insights that drive decision-making and performance.
7. Compliance and Reporting: Ensure adherence to financial regulations, produce statutory accounts, and support audits and reporting processes.

About You
Essential Skills and Experience:

1. Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW) with at least 3 years of post-qualification experience.
2. Strong knowledge of local government finance frameworks, including the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting and IFRS.
3. Proven leadership experience, with the ability to motivate teams.
4. Exceptional communication skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, from senior managers to elected members.
5. Expertise in financial systems management, VAT compliance, and banking operations.

Desirable Skills:

1. Knowledge of procurement practices and experience with the Unit 4 financial system.

What We Offer:
* Competitive Salary and Benefits: Including a local government pension.
* Flexible Working: Options to support work-life balance, including hybrid working arrangements.
* Professional Growth: Access to comprehensive training and development opportunities.
* Impactful Work: Play a key role in driving financial sustainability and improving services for the community.

How to Apply:
If you’re a driven and experienced finance professional ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you. To apply, please submit your CV.