Finance Business Partner Position Available In Jefferson, Alabama

In the Defra group, we deal with a vast range of issues that profoundly impact on people’s lives. We are responsible for England’s environment, our countryside and rural economy, the food and farming sectors and have lead responsibility for protection from a wide range of Natural threats and hazards. We have developed a set of three strategic objectives covering our policy outcomes and corporate objectives. These objectives help us to deliver our ambitious vision to build our green and healthy future and provide a framework for all the important work we carry out.

Our objectives are:

• To pass on to the next generation a natural environment protected and enhanced for the future.
• To lead the world in food, farming and fisheries with a sustainable model of food production.
• To be an outstanding organisation focused on making a difference, with world class delivery capability.

Defra group Finance (DgF) is an innovative, award-winning team full of talented, professional people. We are passionate about delivering a high-quality finance service that meets the standards expected of us by our partners and by ourselves. As a key member of the Defra Group Finance team, you will contribute to shaping policies and decisions that have a meaningful impact on the environment. We’re seeking an experienced and motivated Finance Business Partner to provide expert finance support to policy teams and Arm’s Length Bodies in the Environment area. This high-impact role ensures strategic alignment across diverse business areas, while fostering collaboration and driving forward Defra’s financial objectives. This is a key role in Defra Group Finance that provides senior Finance Business Partner support to policy teams and Arms Length Bodies. Managing a small team, you will be responsible for evaluating current spending, new proposals and their business cases to ensure they deliver on both departmental priorities and maximum value for money. You’ll maintain robust financial controls, while also supporting multi-year planning, forecasting and accounting processes within your area of responsibility. Working closely with Strategic Finance, Defra Investment Committee and HM Treasury you will facilitate approvals and manage allocations effectively. Your role will also ensure compliance with Managing Public Money and Consolidated Budgeting Guidance guidelines, providing sound advice to the Accounting Officer on all expenditure in your area. Key responsibilities will include but not be limited to: Leading finance business partnering activities for core Environment policy directorates, including fiscal events preparations, multi-year business planning and annual budget setting. This includes supporting accurate financial forecasts and plans through robust challenge and collaborative working with Management Reporting. Representing Finance on policy project/programme boards and working groups, ensuring financial implications are fully understood and considered. Developing an in-depth understanding of diverse business areas, their priorities, and needs, while ensuring alignment with overarching strategic goals. Managing and mentoring a team of Finance Business Partners, championing training and development opportunities to build capability and broaden skillsets. Support team to effectively engage with other Finance teams, ensuring the opportunities for continual improvement are identified and pursued. Building and influencing relationships with key stakeholders and budget holders to facilitate effective collaboration and serve as a key link with Finance colleagues. Providing financial scrutiny and challenge in the development of business cases and investment proposals, supporting on Project Assurance Groups and Defra Investment Committee processes. Taking a proactive leadership role in the Future Finance Programme, representing the needs of core policy Finance Business Partners and driving initiatives aligned with the Finance Plan. Supporting the rollout of budget holder training and identifying opportunities to enhance financial capability across business areas.