The Band 5 Finance Officer will support the Financial Management function by providing high-quality financial information, analysis, and advice to senior staff. The post holder will liaise with directorate leads, contribute to financial planning and reporting, and assist in maintaining financial stability across the Trust.

Key Responsibilities

• Liaise with senior Trust staff to support budget understanding and resolve financial queries.

• Assist with the annual budget-setting process within agreed guidelines and timelines.

• Support the development of efficiency plans, recovery plans, and contingency measures.

• Identify potential financial risks and support corrective actions to ensure breakeven positions are achieved.

• Support improvements in financial systems, reporting tools, and data quality.

• Produce ad-hoc financial reports and respond to information requests from senior staff.

• Travel to other SEHSCT sites as required.

Working Arrangements

• A probationary period will apply, during which the postholder will be based on-site full-time to support training and onboarding.

• Once probation is completed, hybrid working applies: 3 days in office, 2 days at home.

• Applicants should hold a full driving licence and have access to a car.

Contract Information

• The role is confirmed until 31 March 2026.

• Extension may be possible depending on the return of seconded staff, currently anticipated between April and September 2026 (subject to change).

Essential Criteria

Candidates must meet one of the following:

• University degree and 2 years relevant financial experience, or

• AAT/HND qualification and 2 years relevant financial experience, or

• Part-qualified with a CCAB-recognised body and 1 year relevant financial experience, or

• 3 years relevant experience at Band 4 level

Additionally:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong competence in Microsoft Excel, including data manipulation and analysis.

• Confidence with accounting principles such as accruals and prepayments.

• Experience in management accounts and variance investigation (desirable).

• Ability to prioritise workload and meet departmental deadlines.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will:

• Be analytical, proactive, and detail-focused

• Demonstrate strong stakeholder engagement skills

• Work effectively under pressure and to deadlines

• Show initiative in identifying process improvements