Finance

“Collaborative, can-do, and always thinking ahead”

Finance at the council

Let’s start with a number than might surprise a few people – the size of our finance team. There are over 100 of us, from apprentices working towards qualification, to qualified, highly experienced accountants. Together, we support the whole of the council, its service areas and key partnerships, to help deliver services more effectively.

We’re hugely proud that the high-quality, high-performing finance support and advice we provide helps to improve lives in Somerset. We champion and deliver financial practice and management. We help budget holders to manage their budgets effectively and responsibly – within the available resources. We carry out statutory requirements and undertake all payment functions to suppliers. We support on tax issues and pension matters, as well as risk management, transaction processing and insurance.

The important role we play

While we’re focused on the here and now, we’re always looking, thinking and acting ahead. We play a crucial role in supporting Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and business planning and transformation.

Finance is never about bean counting or penny-pinching. It’s making sure that we have the financial means to deliver on our promises for our residents. That’s why we look for people who want to make things happen. People who’ll help us find new ways to be better. People who are caring and commercially astute (yes, you can be both!). And as a team, you’ll find us friendly and respectful. We’re collaborative and can-do, always thinking about the end user and how we can deliver the best possible service to them, today and in the future.

Get in touch

We're always pleased to hear from talented people. So if you've got any questions about the opportunities that we have available in Finance, or if there's anything else you'd like to know before you apply (or even during the application process), please get in touch with us.

Email the team

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"The council is full of supportive colleagues who encourage you to try your best. I really enjoyed building close working relationships with colleagues across the council. They’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, and every colleague's skillset and background is valued."

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