High Needs Block Sustainability Finance Lead

CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD

Job Location:

Wiltshire - UK

Daily Salary: £ 375 - 375

Experience Required: 4-5years

Posted on: 13 hours ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

3 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

The High Needs Block (HNB) Sustainability Finance Lead is a senior finance specialist responsible for leading all financial aspects of Wiltshire Councils HNB Sustainability Programme.

The role involves strategic planning detailed financial analysis and oversight of the 73m HNB budget to ensure financial sustainability of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) services across the county.

The postholder will provide expert advice to senior officers Schools Forum and elected members contributing to programme delivery transformation and mitigation of HNB deficits.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

Lead strategic financial planning and sustainability-focused financial management across SEND services.

Provide expert financial advice to senior officers Schools Forum and elected members.

Maintain accurate HNB forecasts and ensure reporting compliance with the Education & Skills Funding Agency.

Undertake forensic analysis of SEND expenditure and identify cost drivers and mitigation opportunities.

Develop evidence-based financial dashboards integrating finance and activity data.

Introduce robust financial controls assurance and monitoring processes for the HNB budget.

Collaborate with internal and external partners including DfE-led programmes to improve value for money.

Support operational and commissioning teams to ensure financially sustainable service delivery.

Contribute to corporate change initiatives and promote innovation in financial management.

Provide constructive challenge to senior managers regarding spend policy and service decisions.

Skills/Experience:

Extensive experience in local authority finance preferably within Education or Childrens Services.

Proven track record in strategic financial planning analysis and budget management.

Expertise in High Needs Block (HNB) finance including SEND funding DSG conditions and operational guidance.

Experience leading complex savings-driven programmes or projects.

Strong stakeholder management influencing and communication skills.

Ability to translate complex financial data into accessible insights for varied audiences.

Knowledge of legislative framework for SEND and local government financial regulations.

Experience in financial assurance performance management and value-for-money initiatives.

Ability to work in a political environment and liaise with elected members and senior leaders.

Additional Information:

Degree-level qualification; fully qualified accountant (CIPFA/CCAB) desirable.

Full-time role: 37 hours/week 9:00 17:00 01/12/2025 27/02/2026.

Location: County Hall Wiltshire Council.

Enhanced DBS clearance required.

Occasional travel may be required; UK driving licence desirable.

Participation in DfE SEND programmes and collaboration with external partners expected.

Required Skills:

Extensive experience in local authority finance preferably within Education or Childrens Services. Proven track record in strategic financial planning analysis and budget management. Expertise in High Needs Block (HNB) finance including SEND funding DSG conditions and operational guidance. Experience leading complex savings-driven programmes or projects. Strong stakeholder management influencing and communication skills. Ability to translate complex financial data into accessible insights for varied audiences. Knowledge of legislative framework for SEND and local government financial regulations. Experience in financial assurance performance management and value-for-money initiatives. Ability to work in a political environment and liaise with elected members and senior leaders.

Required Education:

Degree-level qualification; fully qualified accountant (CIPFA/CCAB) desirable.

3 months contract with a Local Authority Job Summary: The High Needs Block (HNB) Sustainability Finance Lead is a senior finance specialist responsible for leading all financial aspects of Wiltshire Councils HNB Sustainability Programme. The role involves strategic planning detailed financial analys...