Head of Financial Services (Chief Financial Officer)

About [Employer hidden]

[Employer hidden] is a diverse and ambitious region in northeast Scotland, home to around 96,000 people. With a mix of coastal towns, rural communities, and a strong sense of identity, Moray offers a high quality of life, excellent transport links, and a unique natural environment. The Council is committed to delivering its Corporate Plan and Local Outcomes Improvement Plan, focused on tackling poverty and inequality, building a stronger economy, and empowering communities.

We are proud of our collaborative partnerships, innovative thinking, and commitment to delivering high-quality public services that make a real difference to people’s lives.

The Opportunity

This is a pivotal leadership opportunity to join [Employer hidden] as Chief Financial Officer (Depute s95 Officer), a key member of the Extended Corporate Leadership Team (ECLT). As Head of Financial Services, you will play a central role in shaping and delivering the Council’s strategic and financial direction, ensuring high-quality, efficient, and innovative services that meet the needs of Moray’s communities.

You will be responsible for leading strategic finance, finance operations, and taxation, while also contributing to the wider corporate agenda. This includes transformation, digital innovation, workforce development, and community engagement. You will work closely with elected members, senior officers, and external partners to drive forward the Council’s vision of a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Moray.

This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact in a region known for its natural beauty, strong communities, and ambitious plans for the future. As a senior leader, you will be expected to foster a culture of openness, trust, and continuous improvement, while championing innovation and best value across all areas of financial service delivery.

Person Specification

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a strong track record in financial and operational management within a complex organisation. You will be a qualified accountant (CIPFA or equivalent) with a relevant degree and a deep understanding of public sector financial systems, legislation, and governance.

Essential attributes include:

• Proven leadership and management experience in a large organisation, ideally within the public sector.
• Demonstrated success in strategic financial planning, budget management, and service transformation.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across professional and organisational boundaries.
• A commitment to customer-focused service delivery and continuous improvement.
• High levels of political awareness, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• A collaborative and empowering leadership style that motivates and develops high-performing teams.

Desirable attributes include:

• Experience operating at a corporate level and advising elected members or boards.
• A track record of delivering outcomes in a multi-agency or partnership context.
• Knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing local government in Scotland.

This is a role for someone who thrives on challenge, is passionate about public service, and is ready to lead transformational change in a forward-thinking council.