Financial Accountant

This is an exceptional opportunity to work for one of New Zealand's larger commerical businesses in a Financial Accounting fixed term contract for 14 months to cover maternity leave. You will be charged with ensuring there is integrity across financial contyrol alongside a high calibre team.

The role offers a unique blend of technical accounting responsibilities, tax compliance activities, and the chance to work closely with knowledgeable professionals who are passionate about making a difference. With generous leave provisions, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and access to retail discounts through a comprehensive benefits platform, you will be empowered to balance your professional growth with personal wellbeing.

• Fixed-term contract for 14 months covering parental leave, offering stability and the chance to make a meaningful impact within a respected finance team.
• Enjoy flexible hybrid working arrangements that allow you to split your time between home and a welcoming office space in central Wellington.
• Access extensive benefits including enhanced employer contributions for retirement savings, retail discounts at over 150+ local retailers, and dedicated volunteering days to support your community.

What you'll do:

As a Financial Accountant based in Wellington, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the financial health of one of New Zealand’s largest commercial businesses. Your day-to-day responsibilities will centre around managing core accounting processes such as general ledger integrity, preparing statutory accounts for multiple entities, compiling monthly performance reports, and handling tax compliance activities. You will be expected to communicate financial information clearly beyond the finance team, helping various stakeholders understand key results. By developing an understanding of operational nuances within the business, you’ll be able to apply this knowledge in your reporting duties. Success in this role will come from your ability to assess complex accounting treatments thoughtfully, investigate queries thoroughly, and collaborate effectively with colleagues. You’ll also have opportunities to contribute ideas for process improvements while supporting broader governance activities.

• Manage the integrity of the general ledger by investigating balances and performing corrective actions as required to ensure accuracy across all entities.
• Deliver timely and accurate financial information that is communicated effectively outside the core finance team to support business decision-making.
• Prepare full year accounts for all group entities, including producing detailed notes and commentary that provide valuable insights into financial performance.
• Compile monthly performance reports with clear drafting of commentary that explains key variances and trends for stakeholders across the organisation.
• Develop a deep understanding of how the organisation operates and apply this knowledge in reporting activities to enhance transparency and accountability.
• Assess complex accounting treatments and present well-considered recommendations that align with current standards and organisational objectives.
• Investigate queries from internal or external parties and present back comprehensive commentary that addresses concerns and supports informed decisions.
• Prepare annual income tax returns as well as review other tax returns, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation while supporting the Tax Manager with advisory and governance activities.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across departments to maintain the accuracy of financial records related to assets, cash flow, and tax obligations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the finance function by sharing insights gained from analysis and reporting activities.

What you bring:

• Chartered Accountant qualification with at least 2-3 years’ post-qualification experience in large corporate environment or experience having worked in a recognised accounting firm.
• Proven expertise in financial accounting within complex organisations enables you to manage intricate transactions confidently.
• Comprehensive understanding of accounting standards and New Zealand tax legislation ensures compliance across all reporting activities.
• Ability to provide concise yet insightful commentary on financial statements helps stakeholders make informed decisions.
• Experience in income tax, GST, FBT tax compliance activities would be highly advantageous for handling diverse tax obligations.
• Excellent communication skills allow you to work collaboratively across different teams within the business.
• A collaborative approach combined with a genuine desire to be part of a supportive team enhances overall effectiveness.
• Familiarity with JOE ERP system would be beneficial but not mandatory; willingness to learn new systems is valued.
• High capability with Microsoft Suite applications—particularly Excel—enables efficient data analysis and reporting.
• Passion for embracing organisational values and contributing positively towards broader commitments is highly regarded.