Job Description

Playing a pivotal role in shaping financial strategy and commercial decision-making, this is a unique opportunity to lead during a time of significant organisational transformation.
Based in Cardiff with 2-3 days per week in the office, this 6-month daily rate contract (up to 950 per day, inside IR35 via umbrella) offers the chance to provide high-level financial and commercial leadership within a complex and evolving environment.
The Opportunity
As Director of Finance and Commercial, you will take on a highly influential leadership role, guiding all financial, commercial, and economic activities within the organisation. Acting as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Executive Team, and Board, you will ensure robust governance, effective risk management, and value-for-money decision-making. This is a rare opportunity to make a meaningful impact on public sector finance at the most senior level.
Key Responsibilities

• Lead Finance, Commercial, and Economics functions, ensuring full compliance with legal, regulatory, and government standards
• Provide strategic financial guidance to the CEO and Executive Team, supporting spending reviews and fee assessments
• Act as lead executive for the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee, a full member of the Main Board, and accountable executive for risk management and corporate assurance
• Chair the Finance and Investment Committee and Commercial Assurance Panel
• Act as corporate guardian for budgets and efficiency targets, ensuring adherence to Managing Public Money
• Drive continuous improvement in financial operations, systems, and service delivery
• Champion value-for-money and evidence-based decision-making across major investments
• Embed effective procurement strategies aligned with public sector best practice
• Build strong relationships with government stakeholders to support sound financial and investment decisions
• Oversee timely and accurate delivery of statutory reporting, including the annual report and accounts

Candidate Profile

• Senior financial leadership experience within a complex organisation (public sector preferred)
• Proven record of delivering value-for-money financial management and strategic planning at board level
• Track record of leading multi-disciplinary teams through change
• Strong, visible, and inclusive leadership style with board-level credibility
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking, able to communicate complex financial concepts clearly
• Skilled in negotiation, influence, and pragmatic problem-solving in high-pressure environments
• Deep knowledge of financial control, reporting, and performance management
• Strong understanding of Managing Public Money and government functional standards
• Expertise in high-value, high-risk procurement and commercial decision-making
• Fully qualified accountant (CCAB, CIMA, or equivalent) desirable, with evidence of ongoing professional development essential

Package & Benefits

• Up to 950 per day (inside IR35, via umbrella company)
• 6-month contract, starting ASAP
• Hybrid working: 2-3 days per week in Cardiff office
• Opportunity to lead strategic finance and commercial activity at board level

Reasons to Join

• Shape financial and commercial strategy at the highest level during a period of significant transformation
• High-impact leadership role with direct influence on governance, investment, and stakeholder engagement
• Work alongside a senior leadership team to drive operational excellence and future sustainability

To learn more or apply, please contact Andrea Green at andrea@wilkinsonandassociates.co.uk for a private and confidential discussion. Alternatively, submit your CV and we'll be in touch.

Skills Required