Finance Manager - Christchurch Town Council

Job Introduction

Christchurch Town Council Website

Finance Manager Vacancy

Join Our Team as a Finance Manager

Christchurch Town Council is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Finance Manager to lead and manage the Council’s financial operations. This is a key role supporting strategic decision-making and ensuring robust financial planning, accurate reporting, and compliance with statutory requirements.

As Finance Manager, you will:

• Oversee financial systems and controls, ensuring best practice and compliance with Financial Regulations.
• Prepare budgets, monitor income and expenditure, and produce statutory financial returns.
• Lead on treasury management and investment strategies.
• Manage payroll, VAT returns, and day-to-day financial transactions.
• Act as the principal contact for internal and external audits.
• Support procurement processes and maintain accurate financial records.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll lead and manage the Council’s financial operations, ensuring robust financial planning, accurate reporting, and compliance with statutory requirements. This includes preparing budgets, monitoring income and expenditure, producing year-end accounts and statutory returns, managing payroll and VAT, and acting as the principal contact for audits. You’ll also oversee treasury management, support procurement processes, and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard public funds.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a qualified and experienced finance professional with a recognised accounting qualification (or equivalent experience), excellent attention to detail, and strong knowledge of financial regulations. You’ll need outstanding organisational skills, the ability to interpret complex financial data, and confidence in advising councillors and senior officers. Absolute discretion is essential, as you’ll handle highly confidential and sensitive information daily. Professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to transparency and accountability are key.

Why Work for Christchurch Town Council?

• Small, Supportive Team: Join a close-knit, collaborative team where your expertise will make a real difference to the Council’s financial governance and sustainability.
•  Impactful Role: Play a key part in safeguarding public funds and supporting strategic decisions that shape the future of Christchurch.
• Professional Development: Opportunities to enhance your skills through training and involvement in financial projects, audits, and governance improvements.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing.
• Beautiful Location: Work in one of Dorset’s most historic and scenic towns, contributing to its continued success and heritage.

Ready to make a difference? Apply today and take the next step in your finance career and make a real impact in Christchurch.

How to Apply: Please use the below link for the Job Description and Person Specification. A link is also provided for the application form which includes a section for equality and diversity monitoring – please complete this and return by the closing date to careers@christchurch-tc.gov.uk

Closing date: 8th February 2026
The interviews will be held on week commencing 16th February 2026.

For more information about this role please contact Elizabeth Murray: careers@christchurch-tc.gov.uk

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