Corporate Head of Resources

Winchester City Council has been recognised by the Localernment Association (LGA) as a “well‑respected and high‑performing” authority, noted for its strong service delivery, prudent financial management, andmitment to engaging residents in decision‑making. This is an organisation that doesn’t settle for the status quo—it continually seeks to innovate, modernise, and deliver better oues for itsmunities.Your new roleYou will play a pivotal role in supporting the Director of Finance as Winchester City Council prepares for Localernment Reorganisation. A major focus of your work will be leading the seamless transition of our IT, Digital, Finance, Revenues and Benefits systems into the new Unitary Authority by April 2028. This includes ensuring technical readiness, data integrity, systempatibility, and operational continuity throughout the transformation.As Head of Corporate Services, you will lead a high‑impact, technology‑driven portfolio with a strong emphasis on IT and digital services. You will:Shape and deliver the Council’s IT and digital strategy within a shared‑service environmentOversee the modernisation, integration, and optimisation of core business systemsEnsure robust cyber security, dataernance, and digital resilienceDrive the adoption of innovative technologies that improve customer experience and operational efficiencyLead teams across IT, Digital, Finance, Revenues and Benefits to deliver reliable, cost‑effective, user‑centred servicesYour leadership will be instrumental in preparing the organisation for structural change, ensuring that technology underpins a smooth transition and positions the new authority for long‑term success.Collaboration will be essential. You will work closely with internal service leads, external partners, suppliers, and stakeholders to deliver forward‑thinking digital solutions aligned with council priorities. You will champion a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and service excellence—ensuring our technology landscape is fit for the future.Leadership and strategyCouncil’s lead adviser for Digital and IT strategyVisible member of corporate managementSet improvement plans and standards for service excellenceLine manage Service Leads for IT, Digital, Finance, Revenues and BenefitsCoach and mentor teams, modelling the Council’s valuesIT, digital and transformationOwn ITernance, risk andpliance within the shared serviceDeliver the digital strategy and roadmaps to modernise servicesEnsure ICT is ready to support transition to a new Unitary AuthorityFinance, Revenues and BenefitsStrategic leadership and operational oversight of Revenues and BenefitsAct as deputy s151 officer subject to qualifications and experienceLead finance, audit and insurance to meet legislative requirementsSupport financial and IT strategies for reorganisationDeliver annual service plans and hit corporate performance standardsAdvisemittees on service delivery, development and statutory needsEngage with national and regional bodies to bring in best practiceBuild strong partnerships to maximise resourcesEntrepreneurial options appraisal and benchmarkingIdentify service integration and continuous performance improvementResearch and market engagement to developmercial opportunitiesWhat you'll need to succeedWe are looking for someone with a proven track record of senior leadership in corporate services—someone who leads with vision, empowers others, and champions continuous improvement. You will bring experience in organisational change, service transformation, and partnership working, ensuring services are efficient, effective, and forward-thinking. Strong influencing and negotiation skills are essential, enabling you to shape decisions and drive progress.Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience with evidence of CPDPreferably a business or management qualificationSenior leadership track record in relevant servicesProven delivery of organisational change, transformation and continuous improvementStrong knowledge of legislation, regulations and industry standardsCustomer-focused andmercially aware with digital service experienceSkilled partnership builder with political acumen, ethical approach andmitment to equality, diversity and safeguardingResilient, results-driven and highly effectivemunicatorWhat you'll get in returnWinchester City Council offers an excellent package of benefits including:Hybrid Working 50% office-based, 50% remoteOutstanding Pension Scheme: Membership to the Localernment PensionEssential Car User Allowance, Free parking close to Winchester City CouncilEmployer-Paid Health Cash PlanExcellent Annual Leave: 27 days per year, rising to 30 days after 2 years' continuous service, then 35 days after 5 years' continuous service (can be carried across from another localernment organisation for continuous service) - 13 additional flexi-leave days annually - Option to purchase up to 5 extra daysFree Parking: At any Winchester Park and Ride locationDiscounts: Major high street brands and local leisure centresExcellent Working EnvironmentSeason Ticket LoansProfessional Development: Ongoing support for continuous learning and growthSalary Sacrifice Schemes: Available for cars and bikesWorking in Winchester means being based in one of the UK’s most attractive small cities, surrounded by countryside and history but within an hour of London Waterloo by train.