Head of Finance – Financial Planning and Reporting

Join us in shaping Ipswich’s 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 we’re determined to make that vision a reality.

Position: Heads of Finance (2 positions)
Organisation: Ipswich Borough Council
Location: Grafton House, 15‑17 Russell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2DE

Salary: Up to £67,853 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Reference: 0575

• Lead the council’s financial planning and reporting function, ensuring robust, strategic and compliant financial management across the organisation;
• Develop and deliver the Medium‑Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and annual budget‑setting process;
• Act as a principal financial advisor to the Council, Executive, Committees and senior managers;
• Oversee budget monitoring and financial reporting to support effective decision‑making;
• Line‑manage the Finance Manager and provide strategic direction to the Financial Planning and Reporting team;
• Drive improvements in financial systems and processes to support effective financial management;
• Identify opportunities for financial innovation, income generation and cost reduction.

• Qualified finance professional (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent);
• Strong leadership and people‑management skills;
• Track record of delivering high‑quality financial services in a complex organisation;
• Excellent communication and influencing skills;
• Proactive, collaborative approach to problem‑solving and innovation;
• Highly organised, agile and able to adapt quickly in a changing environment;
• Experience in local government or a similar public‑sector environment is highly desirable.

Aside from a competitive 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, ample personal and professional development opportunities, flexible and hybrid working arrangements, an employee assistance programme and the opportunity to work with great colleagues.
For the right candidate, the role may include designation as the Council’s Deputy Section 151 Officer, with an additional allowance of £5,000.

• Corporate Plan, strategies and policies –
• Statement of Accounts
• Medium Term Financial Plan
• LGR:
  Case for Change

For a confidential discussion, contact Tamsin Malone
, Assistant Director of Finance
Email:
Mobile:
Please download the Job Description and Person Specification to find out more about this role.
View online at Home – Ambition Ipswich
.
Applications must be sent by email to finan with a current CV, Supporting Statement (≤2 A4 pages) and Monitoring Form. Please quote REQ
01107 on your email.. Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview candidates and/or close the opportunity early if sufficient applications are received.
Interview date: 18 February 2026 (in person).