Chief Finance Officer

Location: Cardiff Bay, with hybrid working arrangements   

Salary: Up to £90,068 

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (flexible working considered)   

The Role 

As Chief Finance Officer, you will lead the Senedd’s financial strategy and oversee all statutory finance functions. Reporting to the Director of Resources, with a professional line to the Chief Executive, you will manage a Finance team of 14 staff, including oversight of the Internal Audit function. You will also provide strategic leadership as a key member of the Executive Board, advising on financial decisions and ensuring value for money across the organisation. 

You will play a vital role in shaping the Senedd’s financial future, managing an annual investment program, preparing budgets, and ensuring strong financial governance in line with public sector best practices.  

The upcoming years will bring substantial change and investment as we reimagine the Commission’s estate and services to adapt to property requirements, evolving work practices and the emerging needs of our Members. As we approach the 7th Senedd, your leadership will be crucial in shaping and delivering these major transformation programmes. 

The upcoming years will bring substantial change and investment as we reimagine the Commission’s estate and services to adapt to property requirements, evolving work practices and the emerging needs of our Members. As we approach the 7th Senedd, your leadership will be crucial in shaping and delivering these major transformation programmes. 

This position requires a combination of strategic vision, attention to detail, and hands-on leadership to maintain robust financial oversight during a period of transformation. 

The Senedd Cymru 

The Senedd Cymru, or Welsh Parliament, is a forward-thinking, democratically elected body that serves the people of Wales. It is responsible for making Welsh laws, agreeing taxes, and holding the Welsh Government to account. The Senedd Commission provides the staff, property, and services needed to support this work. We pride ourselves on being a modern, inclusive, and innovative institution. 

As we look toward a period of significant transformation, culminating in the expansion of the Senedd to 96 members by 2026, we seek a visionary and experienced Chief Finance Officer (CFO) to play a pivotal role in our continued evolution. This is a rare opportunity to join a leadership team driving strategic financial planning and investment in support of Welsh democracy. 

Candidates 

We are looking for a qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent) with public finance leadership experience. You have a deep understanding of public sector accounting, resource management, and the challenges of delivering large-scale projects in a complex political environment. 

Your leadership style is inclusive and collaborative, with an ability to manage change, foster team development, and drive strategic initiatives. You are passionate about delivering value for money and upholding the highest standards of financial governance. Welsh language skills at a courtesy level are desirable, but training will be provided if needed. 

Next Steps 

Please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum of four pages) outlining your motivation for applying and how you meet the person specification. For more information and to apply, visit: https://execroles.penna.com.   

And for an informal discussion about this role or the selection process, please contact Andrew Tromans at Penna: 07805 226301 or email andrew.tromans@penna.com. 

Closing Date: 13 November 2024 

The Welsh Parliament is committed to diversity and inclusion, and we encourage applications from all sectors of society, particularly under-represented groups.