Financial Controller

About the Role

Take charge of the financial stewardship at the Department of Conservation (DOC), safeguarding public funds and ensuring excellent reporting to support conservation efforts across Aotearoa. As the Financial Controller, you will oversee DOC’s financial controls, maintain the integrity of financial systems, lead statutory reporting and audits, and embed risk management to protect public resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the financial control function, managing department-wide financial oversight and internal controls to protect public funds and minimize risks.
• Guarantee the accuracy and completeness of financial systems, the general ledger, and balance sheet to assist leaders, auditors, and central agencies.
• Manage timely, compliant external financial reporting and act as the main point of accountability for external audits.
• Develop, enforce, and maintain financial accounting policies, delegations, and risk controls to prevent errors or misuse of resources.
• Foster a high-performing and inclusive team environment by setting clear goals, coaching staff, and supporting health, safety, and wellbeing.

Required Skills and Experience

• Chartered Accountant with proven experience as a Financial Controller within New Zealand’s public sector.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Public Sector Accounting Standards, public sector taxation, the Public Finance Act, and government machinery.
• Strong expertise in setting up internal controls, leading audits, and managing politically sensitive issues.
• Experience in modernizing financial management information systems and improving processes, data quality, and reporting.
• Advanced skills in commercial finance management, budgeting, negotiation, and presenting complex financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders.
• Leadership ability to provide direction, delegate, coach for performance, and enhance team collaboration.

Benefits

DOC promotes an inclusive and diverse workplace culture where every employee can thrive and develop. Flexible work arrangements are available depending on role requirements and leadership discussions.

Additional Information

Salary Range: NZD 145,350 to 188,100 per annum, dependent on skills and experience.

Location: Wellington, onsite.

Employment Type: Permanent full-time.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa covering the entire employment period.

Application Process: Submit your CV and cover letter detailing relevant experience and motivation. Email applications or feedback to non-shortlisted candidates are not provided. Recruitment agencies are not engaged for this vacancy.

Application Deadline: 11:59 pm, Tuesday 28 July 2026. Applications may close early, so early submissions are advised.

Contact: For questions, contact Emily Blokker, Recruitment Advisor.