Interim Finance Director

Hiring: Finance Director - Public Sector Traded Services GroupI'm partnering with a large, commercially-focused public sector organisation to appoint an InterimFinance Director who will play a pivotal leadership role during a period of growth, modernisation, and financial strengthening.This is an exceptional opportunity for a finance leader who can operate confidently at executive level, while driving both financial stability and commercial performance across a diverse traded-services portfolio.The RoleAs Finance Director, you'll lead the full breadth of financial strategy, governance, and performance for a multi-entity group delivering a mix of commercial services and essential public functions. You'll shape long-term financial strategy, ensure regulatory and audit compliance, provide trusted insight to the Group MD and Board, and develop a high-performing finance team.You will be a key voice in executive decision-making, bringing financial discipline, challenge, and strategic foresight.Key Accountabilities

• Leading financial strategy, planning, budgeting, forecasting and modelling
• Overseeing all reporting, controls, regulatory compliance & audit
• Strengthening financial governance and risk management
• Driving cost control, margin improvement, commercial performance & investment appraisal
• Partnering with senior leaders across operations and commercial services
• Leading, mentoring & developing the finance team
• Supporting long-term sustainable growth while safeguarding financial resilience

Preferred ExperienceTo succeed in this environment, you will bring:

• A recognised professional qualification (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent)
• 10-15 years' progressive finance experience, with senior leadership in complex organisations
• Strong understanding of UK regulations, accounting standards and compliance
• Demonstrable experience managing financial operations in a multi-entity or group structure
• Proven ability to simplify complexity and influence senior stakeholders

Crucially - Traded Services + LATCO ExperienceBecause this organisation operates commercial service lines within a public sector framework, the client's preferred candidate for this role is one with experience in:Local Authority Trading Companies (LATCOs), Public sector commercial subsidiaries, Council-owned companies, Trading operations within local government. If you understand how to balance commercial performance with public-sector governance, accountability and statutory expectations, this role will play directly to your strengths.