Joint Assistant Director of Finance
From April 2027, Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, following the government’s confirmed plans for local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities, East Surrey and West Surrey, with West Surrey taking responsibility for the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking.
As we move towards this transition, our focus remains firmly on delivering high‑quality, value‑for‑money services and staying true to our shared organisational values of Collaboration, Wellbeing, Trusted, Value for Money and Professionalism.
We recognise that any period of organisational change can bring questions, particularly regarding future structures and working arrangements. Throughout this process, we are committed to supporting our colleagues with transparency and care prioritising wellbeing, maintaining a trusted and open dialogue, and ensuring continued access to learning and professional development opportunities.
While the exact shape of the new West Surrey Council beyond 2027 is still being developed, joining us now means becoming part of an organisation where collaboration thrives and where your contribution will directly influence one of the most significant local government transformations in decades. You’ll gain valuable experience, play an active role in shaping the future of public services across West Surrey, and work within a team committed to professionalism and delivering outstanding outcomes for our communities.
Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to deliver exceptional services for residents both now and into the future.
To apply for this vacancy, click the “Apply Online” link.
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Waverley Borough Council and Guildford Borough Council are ambitious, forward‑thinking authorities committed to delivering high‑performing services for our residents, communities and local economy. Through our successful collaboration, we are building modern, resilient organisations that uphold our shared values of Collaboration, Wellbeing, Trust, Value for Money and Professionalism.
We are now seeking an exceptional finance leader to join us as our Joint Assistant Director of Finance — a key role at the heart of our leadership team, shaping the financial strategy and sustainability of both councils.
About the Role
As the Joint Assistant Director of Finance, you will:
* Act as the Deputy Section 151 Officer, supporting the Chief Financial Officer in delivering strong financial governance, strategic advice and long‑term financial sustainability.
* Lead and oversee core financial services across both councils, including:
- Finance & Accounting (General Fund and HRA)
- Internal Audit
- Procurement
- Revenues & Benefits
- Insurance
* Provide high‑quality, solutions‑focused financial leadership to support the Councils’ priorities.
* Ensure timely, robust reporting and effective management of budgets exceeding £100m+.
* Drive continuous improvement, value for money and transformation across financial services.
* Build strong, collaborative relationships with senior officers, councillors and key stakeholders.
* Lead high‑performing teams, champion our organisational values, and role‑model positive, inclusive leadership.
This is a critical strategic role where your expertise will directly influence service delivery, organisational resilience and financial sustainability for both councils.
About You
We are looking for a confident, collaborative and forward‑thinking finance professional who can bring strong leadership, technical excellence and the ability to influence at all levels.
You will:
Hold a CCAB accountancy qualification and meet the professional requirements to act as Deputy S151 Officer.
* Bring significant senior experience in financial management, governance and strategic leadership (local government experience is strongly desirable).
* Be highly numerate, commercially aware and able to balance operational detail with strategic thinking.
* Be an inspiring leader who can motivate and develop teams across multiple disciplines.
* Demonstrate strong political awareness, resilience and the ability to work at pace.
* Embody our values, champion collaboration and deliver high‑quality services.
What We Offer
The opportunity to lead across two major local authorities with a combined budget of over £100m.
* A key strategic leadership role with real influence on organisational direction.
* A supportive, collaborative, values‑driven culture.
* Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
* Commitment to your professional development and wellbeing.
Interested?
If you would like an informal conversation about the role before applying, please contact:
Jo Knight – Strategic Director of Finance jo.knight@waverley.gov.uk
Please ensure you submit a supporting statement setting out how you meet the essential criteria on the job description when you submit your CV.
We do not accept CVs without a completed application form.
Closing date for applications: 9:00am on 3rd April 2026
Interview date: 10th April 2026 (in person)
Please note we do not accept applications after the time given on the advert.
In return for your valued contribution, we can offer you a competitive benefits package which includes hybrid working and agile working policies, training and development opportunities, generous annual leave and flexi time, free onsite parking, an employee assistance scheme and membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme. You can find out more about working at Waverley and our benefits by visiting - Working at Waverley Borough Council | Waverley Borough Council
The district is home to many different people, and we want our workforce to reflect our diverse local communities. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences - we are a Disability Confident employer and appoint on merit. You can find out more about this scheme and check your eligibility here
We are proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving or ex-members of the armed forces and their partners. We offer an interview scheme for serving and ex-military forces members when they meet the essential criteria for the role. You can find out more about this scheme and check your eligibility here
Please note we do not accept applications after the stated closing time and right to work in the UK will be checked as part of the interview process.
Salary range
- £97,696 per year