Executive Director - Resources (S151 Officer)

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Lead with Ambition. Shape Strategy. Enable Change.

Sefton is a borough that surprises. With 22 miles of stunning coastline, the UK’s largest dune system, thriving communities, and iconic events like The Grand National and The Open, it is a place of real variety and richness. From Victorian seaside towns to vibrant urban centres, Sefton is full of contrasts and full of opportunity. For our people, our communities, and our Council, this is a place where ambition can take root and grow.

We are now seeking an exceptional finance leader to join our Executive Leadership Team as Executive Director Resources & S151 Officer. This pivotal role provides the financial stewardship and corporate leadership needed to take Sefton into the next stage of its journey.

As our statutory S151 Officer, you’ll be responsible for ensuring the financial sustainability of the Council, overseeing effective financial planning, and setting and maintaining high standards across services. But this role is much more than finance. You’ll provide strategic leadership across a broad portfolio including Legal and Democratic Services, Procurement and Contracts, Health and Safety, Strategic Support, ICT and Digital, Human Resources, and Finance. You’ll lead a talented team of Assistant Directors and Heads of Service, empowering them to deliver while setting a strong corporate centre.

We are looking for a leader who can do more than balance the books. You’ll have the resilience and creativity to navigate financial pressures while spotting opportunities to generate value and maximise the potential of our assets. You’ll be ambitious for the Council, pragmatic in your problem solving, and focused on outcomes rather than processes. You’ll know how to set high corporate standards, while also getting alongside services and supporting them to deliver.

You’ll be a qualified accountant (CCAB) with a proven track record of senior leadership and delivering transformational change. Credibility to provide strong financial advice, vision to shape future plans, and personal presence to build trusted relationships with Members, colleagues, and partners are essential. You’ll thrive in a political environment, be comfortable challenging and supporting in equal measure, and be motivated by the chance to make a lasting impact.

If you are ready to shape Sefton’s future, and lead with vision, ambition, and purpose, this is your moment.

To apply or find out more, contact our retained consultants at Tile Hill: Mark Bearn on 07747 181490 or Ella Milward-Hamylton on 07866 963 207.

Recruitment Timetable

Closing date: Midnight on Sunday 28th September

Longlist Meeting (no candidate involvement): Tuesday 30th September

Shortlist Meeting (no candidate involvement): Thursday 9th October

Preliminary Interviews (virtual): Monday 13th October

Assessment Centre (in Sefton): Thursday 16th October

Final Member Interviews (in Sefton): Tuesday 21st October