Title

FINANCE

Local government: What will finance look like in 2040?

Rob Powell says that for section 151 officers, the task ahead will be to embrace technology, reshape the workforce and become stronger strategists and collaborators, while retaining leadership skills and a laser eye on risk.

By Rob Powell | 20 July 2026
© Lana Sham / Shutterstock

Last week I joined president of the Society of County Treasurers Phil Rook and vice-president Nina Philippidis on a panel discussing the future of finance in 2040, chaired by Michael Hudson.

By 2040, manual processing will be gone. The real differentiator will be whether finance teams can turn data into judgement, insight and better decisions across systems.

Popular articles by Rob Powell

  1. Unai Emery's brilliance provides a great blueprint for local government finance leaders
  2. LGR presents a great opportunity for public service reform
  3. Local government now has clarity and a credible way forward on SEND
  4. How will the Government reform the funding system for councils?

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Popular articles by Rob Powell

  1. Unai Emery's brilliance provides a great blueprint for local government finance leaders
  2. LGR presents a great opportunity for public service reform
  3. Local government now has clarity and a credible way forward on SEND
  4. How will the Government reform the funding system for councils?
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