Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer)

Vacancy Documents

• Job Profile Document

Please apply online via the link provided.

Join Us as Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer)

Are you a visionary finance leader ready to make a lasting impact? The South and East Lincolnshire partnership formed of South Holland District Council, East Lindsey District Council and Boston Borough council, is seeking a strategic and experienced Director of Finance to lead our financial services at a pivotal time for local government.

As our Section 151 Officer, you’ll play a critical role in ensuring financial resilience, driving innovation, and preparing the Council for the future—including the exciting prospect of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

This is a demanding and high-profile role that requires resilience, strategic foresight, and the ability to lead through complexity and change.

At its core, this role is about ensuring the sound financial stewardship of the three Councils—from setting and leading the management of multi-million-pound budgets, to overseeing audit, and the effective delivery of revenues and benefits services through our outsource partner. You’ll be the Council’s most senior financial advisor, safeguarding public funds and enabling long-term sustainability.

Work Across a Unique Partnership

You’ll be part of the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership—the largest of its kind in the country—working collaboratively across the three councils. This structure offers Shared services and innovation at scale – creating a great opportunity for the right individual to develop their skills in readiness for new larger authority structures. With cross-council leadership opportunities within a supportive and forward-thinking senior team.

Lead Through Transformation

With LGR on the horizon, this is your chance to: Shape the financial architecture of a new local government landscape; Drive strategic planning and scenario modelling; Influence regional collaboration.

Grow Your Career

We offer: Amongst other benefits a high-profile leadership role with regional influence; Professional development and CPD support; Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

About You

You’ll be a qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACA, ACCA or equivalent) with:

• A strong track record in local government finance
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams
• A passion for public service and innovation

Apply now and bring your leadership to a council—and a partnership—on the move.

This role is politically restricted. The postholder will be expected to work flexibly, including attendance at evening meetings as required.

This position is a shared management role within the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP) and forms part of the S113 agreement between the participating partnership Councils in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement 1st October 2021.

We hope by now you are really interested in applying for our role!

We are asking each applicant to submit a CV and a covering letter (maximum 3 pages) setting out how they feel they meet the requirements of the post and why they feel the role is right for them.

Advert closing date: 6th July

Shortlisting date : 7th – 9th July

1st Stage Interview date: w/c 14th July

Chief Officer Employment Panel: Date TBC W/c 28th July

BENEFITS: We offer excellent terms and conditions of employment including:

• Local Government Pension Scheme, 23.8% employer contribution
• Generous annual leave scheme +option to buy more
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee Benefits Platform including retail, holiday, and leisure discounts
• Cycle to work scheme*
• Flu Jabs
• Free Eye Test voucher
• Salary sacrifice car scheme
• Flexible Working Policy
• Agile Working Policy*
• Car mileage reimbursement*
• Excellent career progression and training opportunities
• Long Service Recognition*

*Certain restrictions may apply

ABOUT US: Boston Borough Council, East Lindsey District Council and South Holland District Council have formed the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership. The largest Council Partnership in the country. Since October 2021, the Partnership Councils have been working closely to deliver improved services to the communities in the sub-region and already there have been many positive outcomes.

Over time, it is envisaged that services will become formally shared across the three Councils creating the opportunity for colleagues to be involved in new and innovate areas of work.

If you are interested in having a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Aileen Whatmore, Head of HR & OD, 07811 836210.

The Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to ensuring all recruitment processes are non-discriminatory and that no potential or current employee is treated unfairly. Find out more about our Equal opportunities on our website

The Council reserves the right to change the closing date, depending on application numbers. Interviews may be arranged virtually/ in person when suitable candidates apply which may be prior to the closing date.