Accounts Advisor - Payables

About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury is a regional council responsible for managing natural resources such as air, soil, water, and land in the Canterbury region of New Zealand. Working collaboratively with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu, the organization aims to protect environmental health for a sustainable and thriving future. The council adapts dynamically to changes in environmental regulations and policies, focusing on three key service areas: Environmental Regulation and Protection, Community Preparedness and Hazard Response, and Public Transport. The council navigates significant national legislation while continuing to deliver essential services to partners and communities.

Role Overview

As an experienced Accounts Payable professional, you will ensure efficient and precise processing of invoices, purchase orders, and payments within a high-volume setting. This role includes supporting colleagues by offering guidance on financial procedures and actively contributing to continuous improvements in the procure-to-pay function, enhancing system effectiveness, compliance, and service delivery organization-wide.

Key Responsibilities

• Accurately process invoices, purchase orders, and payment runs punctually.
• Provide guidance and support on accounts payable policies and procedures.
• Reconcile supplier accounts and resolve any inconsistencies promptly.
• Address queries related to accounts payable from both internal teams and external parties.
• Identify and recommend improvements to streamline processes and improve service quality.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be highly organized and attentive to detail, accustomed to working collaboratively while delivering excellent customer service. A solid understanding of accounts payable processes, coupled with the ability to juggle competing priorities with accuracy under deadlines, is essential.

Experience and Qualifications

• At least three years of experience in accounts payable or broader finance functions.
• Proven experience managing transactions in high-volume financial systems.
• Strong focus on accuracy and detail orientation.
• Competent in reconciling accounts and rectifying discrepancies.
• Excellent communication and customer relationship skills.
• Demonstrated proactive attitude toward problem solving and continuous process improvement.
• Accounting, Finance, or Business-related qualifications are a plus.

Work Environment and Culture

Environment Canterbury values stewardship (Kaitiakitanga), integrity (Pononga), prioritizing people (Manaakitanga), collaboration (Whanaungatanga), and a positive, can-do attitude (Māiatanga). The organization embraces workforce diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive, authentic workplace. It actively supports the integration of te ao Māori and encourages staff to engage with kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori.

Additional Information

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early. The recruitment process includes interviews, reference verification, and criminal background checks as applicable. Environment Canterbury welcomes applications even if candidates do not meet every qualification listed, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in its workplace.