Senior Finance Business Partner (Education)

We’re looking for a temporary 6 month Senior Finance Business Partner to play a key role in supporting Somerset’s education service.  You’ll lead on financial planning, forecasting and monitoring across a wide range of education budgets, including DSG budgets, transport, statutory services and traded education services. Working closely with colleagues across finance and education, you’ll provide expert financial insights to ensure resources are used effectively to support children and young people across Somerset. Working with senior finance colleagues and education leaders, you’ll support a small team of Finance Business Partners to deliver a high‑quality, resilient finance service for Education. Role Purpose As a Senior Finance Business Partner, you will provide expert financial advice, analysis and insight to support services to deliver their objectives and maintain financial sustainability. Working closely with budget holders and senior stakeholders, you will help drive effective financial planning, sound decision‑making and improved use of resources across the Council. Key Responsibilities Provide clear, accurate financial analysis and reporting to support strategic and operational decisions Support budget holders with financial planning, monitoring and compliance with financial regulations  Work with senior colleagues to develop and support delivery of financial strategies Build strong working relationships with services, offering proactive financial advice and challenge Identify financial risks and opportunities, supporting mitigation plans and cost‑saving initiatives Contribute to financial projects, service reviews and continuous improvement activity  What We’re Looking For – Knowledge, Experience and Skills Essential In-depth understanding of financial management principles and practices Knowledge of public sector finance and procurement regulations Familiarity with financial reporting standards and compliance requirements Understanding of budget development and management processes Knowledge of financial software and systems Proven experience in financial analysis Experience in budget management and financial planning Demonstrated experience in preparing and presenting financial reports Experience in identifying financial risk Professional accounting qualification (e.g. MAAT, ACA, ACCA, CIMA), qualified by experience, studying towards or commitment to study Supervisory experience and skills, including contributing to senior management where required Demonstrable experience of operating equality and diversity measures in service commissioning and delivery Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and presentation skills Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office applications Strong organisational and time management skillDesirable Awareness of financial risk management strategies Experience in public sector or local government finance Experience of leading financial projects and initiatives Degree in finance, accounting, or a related field Ability to influence and drive change Negotiation and conflict resolution skills