Runnymede Borough Council are partnering with Robertson Bell to hire a Finance System Implementation and Project Manager for an 18 month contract.
The Role
Reporting into the Corporate Head of Finance and Deputy s151 officer, the post of Finance System Implementation and Project Manager is a newly created, pivotal role, which will see you leading in the implementing and integration of a Cloud based Financial Management System to replace our current legacy accounting software package.
The role requires planning, leadership and business analysis skills, as well as an understanding of technology management, technical accounting processes, business needs analysis and process improvement. A good knowledge of finance and IT systems and procedures gained from working in a senior finance or IT role or as a Functional Consultant is therefore required which will help you manage the day-to-day running of the project in accordance with project parameters and a robust governance framework.
The role responsibilities include:
- Leading the end to end implementation process ensuring modules are thoroughly tested, delivered on time, within scope and on budget.
- Overseeing the project lifecycle throughout implementation and post-go-live support.
- Proactively identifying, managing, and mitigating project risks and issues.
- Collaborating with all users to gain a deep understanding of current systems, processes, and needs to identify areas for improvement, translating these into system functionalities.
- Implementing new processes and controls, documenting all business requirements, processes and workflows.
- Configuring the system to meet best practice in terms of local government financial accounting and end user requirements- including that of auditors.
- Tracking project progress and providing regular reports to stakeholders
- Overseeing the project, assigning tasks, personally undertaking tasks to ensure smooth data transfer and set up, monitoring progress and providing guidance and support to staff.
- Planning and managing the successful migration of historical data from the old system to the new system.
- Managing user training and change management initiatives to facilitate system adoption.
We want to ensure that the implementation leads to a system that is user-friendly, efficient and delivers the reporting outputs we need to assure ourselves and our external stakeholders that we are financially well-governed, following financial rules and procedures and sustainable. You will therefore need to Identify existing processes and work to improve these ahead of system implementation, so that opportunities for governance improvements and financial efficiencies are highlighted, implemented and monitored for success. This will include setting up and supporting finance system review groups for each module of the system and regular communication with key stakeholders.
The Person
We are seeking a highly motivated team player who is pro-active, enthusiastic and who delivers results to spearhead the implementation of our brand-new financial system. A proactive individual, who will roll their sleeves up and get stuck into all elements of project management and delivery, who will be a proven leader with a track record of success in managing large IT projects. Experience working within the public sector is a plus, as you will need to understand the unique needs and regulations of local government finance.
Your financial acumen is equally important. We are looking for someone with in-depth knowledge of financial management principles and practices. This will allow you to effectively bridge the gap between the technical aspects of the system and the real-world financial processes it will support.
Beyond technical expertise, you will also be a master communicator and collaborator. You will need to build strong relationships with finance staff, department heads, and senior management, keeping everyone informed and engaged throughout the project.
The ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment is essential. You will be juggling multiple tasks and tackling complex challenges head-on. But don't worry, you won't be going it alone. We are looking for someone who enjoys empowering others and working as a team, but who is also willing to get their hands dirty and muck-in.. Your passion for user-friendly technology will ensure a smooth transition for all staff as they navigate the new financial system.
There is the potential for this role to be part time (four days per week) for the right candidate and it can also be paid via a daily rate. Please get in touch for more information.
About The Council
Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate and progressive council with a forward-thinking attitude and award-winning departments. We are a district level authority with big ideas, running a large commercial investment portfolio, three wholly owned companies and our own social housing stock.
The finance function is an essential part of the governance framework supporting these services, never more so than currently as the Council responds to a non-statutory Best Value Notice received in December 2023 and due for review in December 2024. We also have a challenging Savings and Efficiency Programme underway seeking to deliver budget reductions of circa £5m by March 2027.
The Council runs a hybrid working programme based on 2 or 3 days per week in the office and 2 or 3 remote, with generous annual leave entitlement, and a package of other benefits including flexible working.
Runnymede Borough Council is committed to promoting equality and respecting diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are a Disability Confident Employer - committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.
Next Steps
Please apply for the position if you think you could add value. The closing date for applications is 16th September with interview happening shortly afterwards.