Decision details

To agree to appoint VF Consultants Limited as specialist financial support, specifically assisting with strategic financial capacity to ensure that the 2026/27 budget is set.

VF Consultants Limited has over 20 years of experience as a Section 151 officer with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to analyse complex data and identify key trends and the day rate is comparable with other rates for similar levels of experience.

Consideration could be given to using an alternative contractor however contracting VF Consultants Limited represents best value as they have previously worked with the council so have a clear understanding of the existing financial processes and procedures as well as the council’s financial position. To appoint someone else would result in additional days being required for training and induction which would increase the overall costs.

Section 151 officer has been consulted.