Senior Financial Planning Manager

Chichester, United Kingdom Posted on 21/08/2026

Job Description 5-6 months contract with a local authority Summary

• This role involves leading and executing the strategic financial planning function for a local authority on a 5-6 month contract, with a daily rate of £600-700 via Umbrella. The primary focus is on the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), annual budget processes, and long-term financial sustainability plans. The successful candidate will provide expert financial guidance, challenge, and support to senior leaders, budget holders, and elected Members, ensuring informed decision-making and robust financial governance in a complex local government setting.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead the creation, maintenance, and execution of the Council's Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), ensuring it aligns with corporate priorities and statutory obligations.
• Conduct comprehensive financial modeling, scenario planning, funding analysis, and long-term financial forecasting to aid strategic decisions.
• Evaluate and oversee the Council's financial sustainability, identifying potential risks, opportunities, and funding challenges.
• Coordinate and manage the annual revenue and capital budget-setting process in collaboration with Directors, Heads of Service, and budget managers.
• Ensure budget proposals are sound, financially viable, and aligned with strategic goals.
• Provide continuous oversight of financial forecasts and budget performance throughout the fiscal year.
• Extensive experience in financial planning, budgeting, and management within a local authority or similar public sector entity.
• Proven track record in developing, implementing, and monitoring Medium-Term Financial Strategies (MTFS).
• Demonstrated experience in leading annual revenue and capital budget-setting processes.
• Strong background in offering strategic financial advice and challenges to senior officers, budget holders, and elected Members.

Essential Qualifications

• CCAB-qualified accountant (CIPFA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) with current professional membership.

Additional Information

• Working hours: 37 hours per week
• Location: County Hall, Chichester
• Working arrangements: Hybrid, with an estimated two days in the office per week