Job Description
HEAD OF FINANCE & DEPUTY SECTION 151 OFFICER
Gosport Borough Council
Location: Gosport Town Hall (Hybrid Working Available)
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Shape the Financial Future of Gosport
Gosport Borough Council is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking finance professional to join its senior leadership team as Head of Finance & Deputy Section 151 Officer. This is a pivotal role, responsible for providing strategic financial leadership, ensuring robust financial governance, and supporting the delivery of high-quality services to residents.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Council’s finance function, including financial management, budgeting, treasury management, accounting, accounts payable and accounts receivable.
- Support the Director of Finance by acting as Deputy Section 151 Officer and providing expert advice on financial governance, compliance and statutory responsibilities.
- Lead the development and delivery of the Medium-Term Financial Strategy, annual revenue budget and capital programme.
- Oversee the preparation of statutory accounts, financial reporting and external audit processes.
- Provide strategic financial advice and challenge to Members, senior leaders and service managers.
- Promote financial resilience, accountability, value for money and continuous improvement across the organisation.
- Develop, motivate and inspire the finance team while contributing to the wider Corporate Management Team.
About You
You will be a CCAB-qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW or equivalent) with substantial experience of working at a senior level within local government finance.
- Excellent knowledge of local authority finance, treasury management and statutory accounting requirements.
- Experience of leading budget setting, medium-term financial planning and year-end accounts.
- A proven ability to provide strategic financial leadership and successfully manage change.
- Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Political awareness, sound judgement and a commitment to delivering high-quality public services.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- The opportunity to make a significant contribution to the future success of Gosport Borough Council and the community it serves.
Join Us
If you are a strategic finance leader looking for an opportunity to influence decision-making and drive financial excellence within a forward-thinking local authority, we would like to hear from you.
Closing date for receipt of completed applications 1 October 2026
Interviews will take place on the 8 and 9 October 2026
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