Join us in shaping Ipswich’s future. We are passionate about making a real difference for our residents, our communities, and our local economy. As a forward-thinking organisation, we are proud to provide a strong voice for Ipswich while delivering the essential services people rely on every day. Our Corporate Strategy, Proud of Ipswich, sets out our ambition to champion our community and revitalise our town and we’re determined to make that vision a reality.
We are on an ambitious journey and, as part of this, there is an exciting opportunity for a proactive, passionate, and positive Head of Finance to bring financial expertise and leadership to the organisation. Reporting to the Council's Assistant Director, Finance and working closely with our Director of Resources, you will lead our experienced Financial Planning and Technical Finance functions.
Ipswich Borough Council is also preparing for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), a once-in-a-generation transformation in how local services are delivered across Suffolk. This role will be critical in maintaining strong financial management and resilience throughout this period of change, ensuring the Council is well-positioned for a sustainable future.
You will lead the Council’s technical finance function, ensuring robust, strategic, and compliant financial operations. Key responsibilities include:
We’re looking for qualified finance professionals (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with:
Experience in local government or a similar public sector environment is highly desirable.
As well as a good salary, we offer a career average pension scheme, generous holiday and sick pay entitlements, relocation assistance, subsidised parking for work and leisure, public transport discounts, free swimming and gym membership, cycle purchase scheme, plenty of personal and professional development opportunities, flexible working, hybrid working opportunities, an employee assistance programme and the opportunity to work with great colleagues.
For the right candidate, the role may include designation as the Council’s Deputy Section 151 Officer. Where this applies, an additional allowance of £5,000 will be provided to reflect these statutory responsibilities.
Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to interview candidates who meet the essential criteria prior to the closing date and / or to close the opportunity to applicants once we receive sufficient applications.
To find out more
Please download the Job Description and Person Specification
For a confidential discussion, contact Tamsin Malone, Assistant Director of Finance Email tamsin.malone@ipswich.gov.uk Mobile 07880 936366
Useful Documents:
Corporate Plan, strategies and policies | ipswich.gov.uk
How to apply
Apply online at Home - Ambition Ipswich where you can complete the online application form for this vacancy.
Applications must be made by sending a current CV, Supporting Statement of not more than 2 A4 pages and Monitoring Form to financerecruitment@ipswich.gov.uk by the deadline.
Closing date: 19 April 2026.