Shape the future of Finance across a major UK city
Lead One of the Largest Finance Transformation Programmes in Local Government.
Bradford Council is embarking on a major Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) transformation programme, replacing legacy Finance, HR, Payroll and Procurement systems with a single integrated digital platform. Finance sits at the heart of this transformation.
We are seeking an exceptional finance leader to drive the design, implementation and continuous improvement of our future finance systems, ensuring robust governance, statutory compliance and modern digital ways of working across the organisation.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-profile transformation programme with significant strategic impact, managing a programme budget of approximately £40 million over four years.
The Opportunity
As Head of Finance Systems & ERP Transformation, you will:
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Lead the delivery of Finance workstreams within the Council's ERP programme.
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Shape future-state finance processes aligned to best practice and statutory requirements.
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Provide strategic leadership on financial systems, data, controls and compliance.
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Act as the Council's senior authority and advisor on finance systems and ERP transformation.
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Lead cross-functional teams spanning Finance, Procurement, IT, HR and Programme Delivery.
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Oversee finance data readiness, cleansing, migration and governance activities.
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Build strong partnerships with stakeholders including schools, trusts, pension fund stakeholders and senior leaders across the Council.
What We're Looking For
We are looking for a strategic, collaborative and forward-thinking leader with:
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Essential Experience
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Significant experience in finance operations within a large, complex organisation.
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Strong knowledge of end-to-end finance processes.
Experience implementing or supporting ERP finance modules, including:
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General Ledger (GL)
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Purchase-to-Pay (P2P)
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Accounts Receivable (AR)
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Proven experience leading major organisational change and transformation programmes.
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Experience analysing, redesigning and improving business processes.
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Strong stakeholder management and leadership skills.
Essential Qualifications
Full professional accountancy qualification (CIPFA, CIMA or CCAB equivalent).
Key Attributes
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Strategic thinker with strong analytical judgement.
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Digital and systems-focused.
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Innovative and open-minded.
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Collaborative and influential.
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Highly resilient and adaptable.
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Committed to governance, compliance and continuous improvement.
Why Join Us?
Make a Lasting Impact
Help deliver one of the most significant transformation programmes within Bradford Council and help shape how services are delivered for years to come.
Strategic Leadership
Work directly with senior leadership teams, programme boards and stakeholders to influence organisational change at scale.
Lead High-Performing Teams
Manage specialist finance system experts and drive a culture of innovation, excellence and accountability.
About Bradford Council
Our ambition is to build a modern, digitally enabled council that delivers excellent services, value for money and improved outcomes for residents. This role will play a critical part in achieving that vision through innovation, transformation and strong financial stewardship.
Apply Now
If you're an experienced finance leader with a passion for transformation, systems improvement and delivering change at scale, we'd love to hear from you.
Our commitment
We are committed to inclusion, diversity and equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and aim to create a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
How to apply
The application deadline is 23rd July, interviews will be held on 30th July.
If you are ready to lead, influence and transform procurement at scale, we would love to hear from you. If you would like some further information, please contact
