Financial Services Lead

Join us at New Plymouth District Council!

Tūhono mai ki Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu!

Who are we? - Ko wai mātou?

Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu - New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) is dedicated to serving our community and enhancing the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit here.

We are guided by the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and are committed to fostering partnerships that respect and celebrate our district's rich cultural heritage.

Through innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, we aim to deliver exceptional services and initiatives that support our vision of building a thriving, connected, and future-focused district.

At Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive and dynamic organisation that values people, creativity, and progress.

The opportunity - Te āheinga

Following an internal promotion, we're excited to offer a full-time, permanent opportunity for an experienced and proactive leader to join our Financial Services team within the Finance and Planning Group.

This pivotal role is responsible for overseeing a broad range of financial functions, including financial accounting, internal and external reporting, tax and audit compliance, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, credit control, and providing financial advice across the organisation.

You'll lead a team of 16, including 8 direct reports, fostering a high-performance culture and ensuring our financial systems and processes are efficient, compliant, and aligned with best practice.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact across the organisation and contribute to the financial integrity and success of Council operations and our community.

Key responsibilities - Ngā haepapa matua

• Lead the external financial reporting function, including preparation of the Annual Report and coordination of external audit processes
• Lead the financial transactions team (accounts payable/receivable, credit control)
• Lead payroll and asset accounting functions to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Ensure Council meets all audit, tax, financial, and statutory regulations
• Uphold compliance with the Local Government Act and other relevant legislation
• Safeguard the integrity of the general ledger and related financial systems
• Maintain robust internal financial controls and lead organisation-wide compliance initiatives
• Provide expert financial advice and support to managers and staff across the organisation
• Drive team performance and professional development, ensuring systems and processes reflect best practice and legislation

Essential skills and experience - Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako

• Chartered Accountant
• At least six years of post-CA qualification experience in financial accounting, including leading high-performing teams
• Strong technical accounting expertise with in-depth knowledge of accounting standards (PBE IPSAS preferred)
• Proven experience in financial reporting and analysis
• Analytical, solutions-focused mindset with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to continuous improvement
• Proficient in using financial systems, with experience using ERP platforms
• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop teams
• Experience in the local government sector is advantageous but not essential

Why Taranaki? - He aha ngā hua o te rohe nei?

Taranaki is a region like no other, offering a perfect balance of career opportunities and lifestyle. Nestled between the stunning Mounga Taranaki and the sparkling Tasman Sea, it's a place where you can explore world-class hiking trails, surf pristine beaches, and enjoy vibrant arts and culture, all within minutes of each other.

The region boasts affordable living, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a bit of both, Taranaki provides an unparalleled quality of life that will make every day feel extraordinary.

What we offer - Ngā ratonga

At New Plymouth District Council, we aim to create and sustain a truly rewarding workplace environment for our staff.

This includes:

• Solid career pathways
• Learning and development opportunities
• Personal and professional growth
• Our People's Package spans five key pillars: wellbeing, development, benefits, culture, and recognition

You can expect to start in this permanent, full-time role with a salary of between $120,786 and $130,180.

Why join us? - Ngā hua o tō hono mai?

We value the wellbeing of our team and provide an inclusive workplace that recognises and rewards your contributions. Together, we're building a better New Plymouth - one step at a time.

Applications close on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

We will be conducting interviews while the advertisement is open and reserve the right to close applications earlier if a suitable candidate is appointed.

Be part of a council that values people, culture, and opportunity.

Me tūhono mai koe kia tautoko i te Ngāmotu o āpōpō!

Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.