Head of Finance Systems and ERP Transformation

Job Overview

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. This role is a senior leadership position focusing on the design, implementation and continuous improvement of future finance systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Finance workstreams within the Council's ERP programme.
• Shape future state finance processes aligned to best practice and statutory requirements.
• Provide strategic leadership on financial systems, data, controls and compliance.
• Act as the Council's senior authority and advisor on finance systems and ERP transformation.
• Lead cross functional teams spanning Finance, Procurement, IT, HR and Programme Delivery.
• Oversee finance data readiness, cleansing, migration and governance activities.
• Build strong partnerships with stakeholders including schools, trusts, pension fund stakeholders and senior leaders across the Council.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience in finance operations within a large, complex organisation.
• Strong knowledge of end to end finance processes.
• Experience implementing or supporting ERP finance modules, including General Ledger (GL), Purchase to Pay (P2P) and Accounts Receivable (AR).
• Proven experience leading major organisational change and transformation programmes.
• Experience analysing, redesigning and improving business processes.
• Strong stakeholder management and leadership skills.

Essential Qualifications

• Full professional accountancy qualification (CIPFA, CIMA or CCAB equivalent).

Key Attributes

• Strategic thinker with strong analytical judgement.
• Digital and systems focused.
• Innovative and open minded.
• Collaborative and influential.
• Highly resilient and adaptable.
• Committed to governance, compliance and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Make a lasting impact on one of the most significant transformation programmes within Bradford Council.
• Strategic leadership with senior leadership teams, programme boards and stakeholders.
• Lead high performing teams 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.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

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.