Somerset Council - Chief Finance Officer (S151)

A career-defining leadership role in one of England’s most important new unitary authorities

Salary: Competitive, with a package commensurate with experience

Location: Somerset / Hybrid (2–3 days per week on site on average)

Somerset Council is seeking an outstanding finance leader to become our statutory Chief Finance Officer (S151 Officer) at a pivotal moment for the organisation and the county.

Formed in 2023, Somerset Council serves one of the most diverse and distinctive areas in the South West – from Exmoor National Park and the Levels to world-leading energy and engineering sectors, vibrant market towns and globally renowned cultural assets such as Glastonbury. Our ambition is clear: to build a fairer, greener, healthier and more resilient Somerset.

The Role

This is a unique opportunity to lead the council’s financial strategy as we accelerate into purposeful, long-term sustainability.

Working directly with the Chief Executive, Members and the Executive Leadership Team, you will:

• Drive a sustainable Medium-Term Financial Strategy
• Complete a major finance improvement programme
• Strengthen financial planning, forecasting and business partnering
• Lead transformation

You will inherit a finance function that has already made strong progress. The task now is to embed excellence, raise capability and build a modern, insight-driven finance service that supports a high-performing council.

About You

We are looking for a technically strong, politically astute and values-led finance leader who can combine strategic insight with visible, collaborative leadership.

We welcome applications from:

• Experienced S151 Officers seeking a major strategic challenge
• High-potential deputies ready for a step-up, particularly those with strong experience in Adults’ and Children’s Services
• Leaders with a track record of financial recovery, transformation and organisational improvement

Why Somerset?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial future of a young and ambitious council, influence major transformation at scale, and make a tangible difference for residents, communities and the wider Somerset economy.

If you are motivated by public value, strategic challenge and the chance to build something better, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Next Steps

For more information, please refer to the candidate pack linked below:

Somerset Council, Chief Finance Officer (S151) - Candidate Briefing Pack

To arrange a confidential discussion, please contact our consultants at CIPFA Penna:

• Andrew Tromans on 07805 226301 or at andrew.tromans@penna.com
• Kelly Ridley on 07709 512415 or at kelly.ridley@penna.com

Closing date: 23.59pm, Sunday 1^st February 2026

Somerset Council is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

How to apply

• Click “Apply”
• Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
• Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
• Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
• Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
• Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
• If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.