Finance Business Partner

We have an opportunity to join our Finance Directorate as a Finance Business Partner, working closely with the Place Directorate and supporting the Highways and Transportation Service. You will be supporting an annual service budget of £82m and capital budget of c. £80m., We are looking for a finance professional to join our Highways and Transport team, playing a key role in delivering high-quality financial management, insight and support across the service. You will be responsible for managing elements of the operational finance cycle, including budgeting, financial monitoring, management reporting and year-end processes, ensuring all activities are delivered in line with County Council procedures and reporting deadlines. Working closely with senior managers and stakeholders, you will provide expert financial advice, analysis and business case support for service improvements, major procurement exercises and development projects. Using your strong analytical skills, you will help drive effective decision-making by providing meaningful financial insight, identifying opportunities to improve value for money, and offering constructive challenge where appropriate. The role also involves supporting the wider finance function through continuous improvement activities and sharing knowledge with colleagues and budget holders, including the occasional delivery of finance-related training. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical financial expertise with business partnering and project-based work.

We're seeking either a fully qualified Accounting Technician or a part or fully qualified accountant with a solid understanding of the financial management cycle. You will be confident in preparing and presenting budget monitoring information to management teams and comfortable using financial data to provide clear recommendations and practical solutions. Strong communication, influencing and relationship-building skills are essential, as you'll be working with a range of stakeholders across the organisation. Previous experience within a Highways and Transport environment is not required. We're more interested in finding someone with the right skills, attitude and values. You'll be supported by an experienced and welcoming team who will help you develop your understanding of the service and build the sector-specific knowledge needed to succeed in the role.,

• AAT qualified or part qualified CCAB, or equivalent qualification.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge and understanding of public sector financial issues and accounting requirements.
• Proficiency in analysing and interpreting financial data, use of IT within a finance environment, and financial modelling techniques.
• Ability to work successfully in a professionally independent and autonomous manner, managing time effectively and adhering to deadlines.
  
  The starting salary for this role is £55,486 per annum, working 36 hours per week., 26 days' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service (pro-rated for part time opportunities)
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• A generous local government salary related pension
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
• An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
• Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
• A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents