Interim Head of Finance, Central Government Department

Anderson Quigley is delighted to be working with a central government department who are looking for an interim Head of Finance over a 12 month period.

You will play a pivotal role within a central government department, supporting the delivery of its strategic financial goals and ensuring robust financial management and reporting. As a key leader within the Finance and Operations team, the successful candidate will oversee critical functions such as transitioning to a new finance system, ensuring compliance with statutory accounting standards, and providing expert advice to senior leadership.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced finance professional to make a significant impact within a unique central government setting, contributing to the department’s ambitious five-year strategy and enhancing its operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and System Transition

• Lead the finance team through the implementation and transition to a new finance system.
• Assure business and system changes to align with relevant accounting standards, best practices, and Government Functional Standards.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Oversee financial accounting, including preparation of annual reports and accounts.
• Act as the primary liaison with the National Audit Office (NAO) and the Government Internal Audit Agency (GIAA).
• Manage external reporting requirements, including submissions to HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office (e.g., Main and Supplementary Estimates, spending controls, and transparency returns).

Technical Advice

• Provide expert financial advice on complex accounting and budgeting issues, including sensitive matters.
• Ensure robust stewardship and accounting for public funds through effective planning and internal controls.

The client is open to candidates from public sector organisations. Hybrid working is on offer with candidates being based in either London or Edinburgh.

About the Department

This central government department is a non-ministerial body that provides expert advice and specialist analysis to support effective decision-making across the public sector. The Finance team operates within a dynamic environment, managing a wide-ranging portfolio of responsibilities that contribute to the organisation’s overall mission and strategic goals.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please contact Az Ahmed at az@andersonquigley.com or on 07873 628 945 if you would like to know more.