Deputy Director of Finance x3

Introduction

DCSF is transforming the way finances are managed. The Board have agreed that there should be a professionally qualified Deputy Director in each of the main policy Directorates, with the capacity and influence to ensure all policy and project considerations are financially robust. The post holder will also act as an agent for change to enable Directorates to drive up the benefits from the implementation of the new Finance Operating Model across DCSF, including the new Oracle ERP system but also the many other related aspects of an improved financial framework.

The new post in each Directorate will have dual accountability, to the Director of Finance for professional skills as well as to their Director General.

Location - DCSF is based on four sites: London, Sheffield, Runcorn or Darlington. Location to be determined but the postholder can expect to spend significant time in London.

Accountability

The post holder will report to the Policy Director General as the role has a functional accountability within the business. However, as the role is also a critical element of the Department’s wider finance community, the post holder will also have a professional line of responsibility into the Department’s senior finance professional.

Key responsibilities:

provide effective support, advice and challenge to Directorate FAC teams (FACTs) on finance, Value for Money planning, the underlying assumptions associated with in-year expenditure, future allocation requirements and emerging policy proposals
developing the standards, frameworks, timetables and guidance to improve and develop the Department’s delegated framework
establishing clear financial control regimes within the Directorate that support Directorate needs but which are consistent with the corporate approaches and help ensure transparency and visibility of financial data at all levels
embedding understanding of and compliance with respective financial responsibilities
modelling and advice to policy teams on programme costs and forecasts to ensure policy proposals are properly costed, affordable and value for money, and contribute to financial exercises and questions from Parliament, the public and the media
raising levels of financial management expertise in group

Essential skills and experience

You will be an exceptional leader who is able to show that you have the necessary imagination, skill and track record for this demanding role. You will need to demonstrate ability in the following areas:

a CCAB accountancy qualification
substantial post qualification experience in management accounting, financial advice to decision makers, investment appraisal and performance management
success as a senior financial manager in a large, complex, customer focused service organisation
leading and motivating a team in a comparable organisation to a high level of achievement through the setting and monitoring of objectives
leading change management projects where organisational ambitions are translated into real achievement
working collaboratively with a wide range of business and corporate stakeholder
a strong interest in and commitment to services, policies and outcomes for children, schools and families

Personal qualities

The person most suited to this role will:-

demonstrate a professional demeanour with leadership by example that commands the confidence of others
have strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
possess a strong track record of collaboration and teamwork across functional and organisational boundaries
demonstrate strong, influencing and communication skills
possess sound judgement, political awareness and sensitivity
exemplify honesty and integrity
demonstrate a commitment to the principles of equality and diversity

To download a candidate pack for the Deputy Director of Finance please click here

Apply online with Darlington as your preferred location

Apply online with Sheffield as your preferred location

Apply online with Runcorn as your preferred location

Apply online with London your preferred location