Interim Director of Finance

The Cumbria County Council; Penrith; Hybrid; GBP 81,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in England is seeking an Interim Director of Finance to lead financial strategy and ensure compliance with governance standards. In this role, you will work closely with senior leadership to shape the Authority’s corporate strategy while championing diversity and high-performance behaviours. Applicants should have proven experience in financial management within the public sector and strong leadership skills. This is a temporary contract for 18 months, offering a salary between £81,049 and £83,933.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a financial adviser in a public sector or similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of financial regulations and compliance standards.
• Experience in leading teams and managing diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Authority’s financial strategy.
• Ensure compliance with governance and financial regulations.
• Work closely with the Mayor and council members.
• Oversee internal operations and PMO.
• Champion high-performance behaviours and diversity.

Skills

Financial strategy leadership

Governance and compliance

Diversity and inclusion advocacy

Relationship building

Organizational development

Education

Relevant financial qualifications

Job description

The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.

Job details

Job reference REQ00000019387 Date posted 02/01/2026 Application closing date 18/01/2026 Location Penrith Salary £81,049 - £83,933 Package Blank Contractual hours 37 Basis Full time Attachments Blank

Interim Director of Finance (Section 73 Officer) - WMF2525e

Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)

Contract Type: Temporary (18 months)

Shape the Future of Cumbria

Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter.

The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria.

As we establish the organisation, we are seeking exceptional, values-driven leaders to join us on a temporary (interim) basis in three statutory officer roles. These posts offer a rare opportunity to build an organisation from the ground up, set the foundations for long-term success and leave a lasting legacy for the people of Cumbria.

Interim Director of Finance (Section 73 Officer)

As a member of the Cumbria Combined Authority’s Senior Leadership Team, the Interim Director of Finance will be at the heart of establishing a financially resilient and well-governed organisation.

You will act as the Authority’s principal financial adviser, ensuring sound financial stewardship, strong governance and full compliance with all legislative and regulatory requirements. Working closely with the Mayor, elected Members and senior colleagues, you will help shape the CA’s operating model, corporate strategy and delivery of mayoral priorities from May 2027.

You will:

• Lead the Authority’s financial strategy and statutory responsibilities
• Oversee the Programme Management Office (PMO) and internal operations
• Champion diversity, inclusion and high-performance behaviours
• Build trusted relationships with partners locally, regionally and nationally
• Strengthen the CA’s reputation, influence and investment readiness

This interim role will lay the foundations for a permanent Section 73 Officer in late 2027, ensuring the Authority is financially strong, confident and future-focused.

Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?

• Be part of a brand-new organisation with real devolved powers
• Shape strategy, culture and systems from the very beginning
• Work with passionate partners across public, private and community sectors
• Make a tangible difference to places, people and opportunities across Cumbria
• Leave a lasting legacy by preparing the Authority for long-term success

If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love to hear from you.

Join us at the start of Cumbria’s journey – and help turn ambition into reality.

Would you like to find out more?

For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the Role Profile .

If you have any queries or would like an informal conversation about this opportunity, please contact Amanda Mays: [e-mail] / 07828 669755.

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 18th January 2026

Technical Interview: w/c 26th January 2026

Final Interview: w/c 9th February 2026

Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.

Safer Recruitment & DBS

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share our commitment.

Please note, this role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and requires a Standard DBS check

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.