Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council - Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer)

Chief Finance Officer

Salary: £146,572

BCP Council is changing the game. We’re bold, ambitious and driving a refreshed vision under our newly appointed Chief Executive, for one of the UK’s most exciting regions that’s packed with potential. With three vibrant towns, over 400,000 residents and 15,500 businesses, our place is full of energy, opportunity and momentum. As an established unitary Council seven years on from LGR, we’re making a name for ourself as a modern, transparent and accountable council that’s not afraid of meeting challenges head on. And now, we’re looking for a strategic financial leader who can match that ambition.

As our Chief Finance Officer and Section 151 Officer, you will be the champion for council’s financial integrity and sustainability — setting the direction for how public money is protected, invested and maximised and ensuring residents get value for money. You’ll lead on managing and financing the exciting regeneration opportunities across our area, shaping organisational decisions and navigating a complex and challenging financial environment, guiding one of the country’s largest unitary councils toward a strong and sustainable financial future.

As a key member of our award-winning senior leadership team, you will set the culture for your services, building a high‑performing and inclusive workforce that reflects our values. You’ll lead significant change, modernise services and provide decisive leadership across revenues, estates and benefits. Your commercial focus and integrity will help unlock new income opportunities, strengthen financial resilience and drive long‑term public value.

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll be CCAB qualified and a current member of a CCAB body, with significant post‑qualification experience and a strong record of continual professional development. As a senior finance leader, you will bring deep expertise in local government finance, a problem-solving approach, a proven track record of transforming services, and the confidence to operate effectively at the highest corporate and political levels.

You’ll bring strategic vision, sharp financial insight, and the leadership presence to build trust, drive pace and deliver results. You will also demonstrate an enabling attitude that helps the Council achieve its ambitions within financial constraints.

If you’re excited by big challenges, motivated by public value and ready to make a visible impact in one of the most dynamic areas in the UK, we’d love to hear from you.

For further information, please visit https://www.leadatbcp.co.uk

For a confidential conversation about the role please contact:

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

Closing date: Sunday 8th March 2026 at 23:59

 How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
6. 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.