Finance Director

Finance Director – Cardiff/Hybrid – 6-month contract

Cpl NI are working on behalf of a public sector client who requires a Finance Director who will be a core member of the Executive Team and the Main Board. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction, ensuring robust financial governance, and driving value-for-money outcomes. This is a unique opportunity to influence high-profile investments, lead enterprise-wide change, and help deliver lasting public value.

Key Responsibilities

·      Provide strategic leadership across Finance, Commercial, and Economics functions

·      Advise the CEO and Executive Team on financial strategy, investment, and governance

• Serve as:
  • Lead Executive for the Audit & Risk Assurance Committee
  • Accountable Executive for risk management and corporate assurance
  • Chair of the Finance & Investment Committee and Commercial Assurance Panel
  • Corporate guardian for departmental budgets and efficiency compliance

·      Lead high-impact commercial and economic analysis to support public sector investment

·      Drive improvements in systems, reporting, and service delivery across finance operations

·      Embed best practice in procurement and commercial decision-making

·      Ensure full compliance with Managing Public Money, functional standards, and statutory reporting

·      Cultivate strong working relationships with government and external stakeholders

·      Oversee the delivery of the annual report, accounts, and corporate disclosures

Essential Experience

·      Executive-level financial leadership in a complex, preferably public sector, organisation

·      Proven success in financial stewardship and delivering value-for-money

·      Leading multi-disciplinary teams through organisational change

·      Track record of strategic planning, governance, and board-level influence

·      Building high-trust relationships across internal and external stakeholders

·      Promoting operational excellence and innovation

Skills & Abilities

·      Inclusive, visible leadership with the ability to influence at board level

·      Strong strategic, analytical, and critical thinking capabilities

·      Excellent communicator of complex financial and commercial issues

·      High resilience and ability to balance competing priorities under pressure

·      Skilled negotiator with sound judgement in risk and governance matters

Knowledge

·      Expert knowledge of financial management, control frameworks, and public accountability

·      Deep understanding of Managing Public Money, government commercial standards, and public investment principles

·      Insight into high-value procurement, market dynamics, and public sector commercial strategies

Qualifications

·      Fully qualified accountant (CCAB, CIMA, or equivalent) – Essential

·      Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development

If you are interested in hearing more or to be considered for this role, apply here or contact Sophie Keogh at Cpl NI.