Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Operational Director of Finance has responsibility for strategic and operational finance on a day-to-day basis including financial management, financial services, financial planning, financial transformation, procurement, payroll and capital. The role will require the development and oversight of robust systems and processes to ensure financial probity. The post will provide leadership and oversight of Standing Financial Instructions, external assurance requirements and other relevant policies. The post holder is responsible for reporting the financial position to the Trust Executive and the Trust Board.

Beyond strong operational stewardship, this role is about looking ahead — bringing insight, foresight and strategic perspective to our financial leadership. We are seeking a professional who can combine operational excellence with the ability to anticipate challenges, interpret emerging trends and shape the Trust’s financial strategy over the medium term.

You will play a key role in horizon scanning across the local system and the wider NHS, helping WWL and its partners to plan with confidence amid changing demand, regulation and funding environments. By working closely with the Chief Finance Officer, you will help to ensure that financial sustainability is underpinned by strong strategic planning and proactive risk management, not reactive control.

As part of the Trust’s senior finance team, you will be instrumental in supporting WWL’s contribution to the Greater Manchester Integrated Care System’s financial recovery and sustainability plans, ensuring that partnership working and shared foresight drive efficiencies, innovation, and value for patients.

The role requires strong working relationships with partners within the Wigan Locality including, Local Authority and ICB colleagues and will lead the commissioning negotiations with commissioners. WWL also has a strong collaborative working relationship with our neighboring Trust through a cluster working relationship which supports our operational and strategic objectives to be delivered.

The post holder has direct line management of the Senior Finance Team and will input into all key senior Trust meetings and decisions. They will continue the ongoing development of the Finance team to ensure it becomes the benchmark within the NHS of a professional, innovative, motivated, effective Finance team.

The Operational Director of Finance will lead the delivery of annual financial plans and their translation into agreed budgets across the organisation, (including devolved financial management strategy) inclusive of required CIP targets.

When required, the role will also provide leadership for financial recovery including delivery. The post holder will also lead on improving the development of SLR/SLM with clinical engagement. The post holder will also have a key supporting role in the development of the following strategies: finance, commercial development, financial planning & information. 

The Operational Director of Finance will deputise for the Chief Finance Officer as appropriate and undertake all duties in line with the requirements of the role to support the Chief Finance Officer. The post has corporate responsibilities as a senior member of the Trust including On-Call.

If you are a strategic finance leader who wants to make a lasting impact on a progressive, community-focused Trust — and play a system-wide role across Greater Manchester — we would be delighted to hear from you