Head of Finance – Financial Planning and Reporting

• Ipswich Borough Council
• Address: Grafton House 15-17 Russell RoadIpswich Suffolk IP1 2DE
• Salary: Up to 67853 per annum
• Hours: 37 hours per week
• Contract: Permanent
• Reference: 0575

Join us in shaping Ipswichs future. We are passionate about making a real difference for our residents our communities and our local economy. As a forward-thinking organisation we are proud to provide a strong voice for Ipswich while delivering the essential services people rely on every day. Our Corporate Strategy Proud of Ipswich sets out our ambition to champion our community and revitalise our town and were determined to make that vision a reality.

We are on an ambitious journey and as part of this there is an exciting opportunity for two proactive passionate and positive Heads of Finance to bring financial expertise and leadership to the organisation. Reporting to the Councils Assistant Director Finance and working closely with our Director of Resources you will lead our experienced Financial Planning and Technical Finance functions.

Ipswich Borough Council is also preparing for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) a once-in-a-generation transformation in how local services are delivered across Suffolk. These roles will be critical in maintaining strong financial management and resilience throughout this period of change ensuring the Council is well-positioned for a sustainable future.

You will lead the councils financial planning and reporting function ensuring robust strategic and compliant financial management across the organisation. Key responsibilities include:

• leading the development and delivery of the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and annual budget-setting process
• acting as a principal financial advisor to the Council Executive Committees and senior managers
• overseeing budget monitoring and financial reporting to support effective decision-making
• line managing the Finance Manager and providing strategic direction to the Financial Planning and Reporting team
• driving improvements in financial systems and processes to support effective financial management.
• identifying opportunities for financial innovation income generation and cost reduction.

About you

Were looking for qualified finance professionals (CIPFA ACCA CIMA or equivalent) with:

• strong leadership and people management skills.
• a track record of delivering high-quality financial services in a complex organisation.
• excellent communication and influencing skills.
• a proactive collaborative approach to problem-solving and innovation.
• the ability to be highly organised and agile and to adapt quickly in a changing environment.

Experience in local government or a similar public sector environment is highly desirable.

Why join us

As well as a good salary we offer a career average pension scheme generous holiday and sick pay entitlements relocation assistance subsidised parking for work and leisure public transport discounts free swimming and gym membership cycle purchase scheme plenty of personal and professional development opportunities flexible working hybrid working opportunities an employee assistance programme and the opportunity to work with great colleagues.

For the right candidate the role may include designation as the Councils Deputy Section 151 Officer. Where this applies an additional allowance of 5000 will be provided to reflect these statutory responsibilities.

Useful Documents:

Corporate Plan strategies and policies

Statement of Accounts

Medium Term Financial Plan

LGR: Case for Change

To find out more

For a confidential discussion contact Tamsin Malone Assistant Director of Finance

Email
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Please download the Job Description and Person Specification to find out more about this role.

How to apply

View online atHome - Ambition Ipswich

Applications must be made by sending a current CV Supporting Statement of not more than 2 A4 pages and Monitoring Form to by the deadline. Please quote REQ01107 on your email.

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to interview candidates who meet the essential criteria prior to the closing date and / or to close the opportunity to applicants once we receive sufficient applications.

Closing date: 8 February 2026.

Interview date: 18 February 2026 (in person).