Management Accountant

About Us

The Whakatāne District Council is dedicated to serving the community with a passion for both people and numbers. Located in Whakatāne, you will enjoy proximity to natural attractions such as rivers, lakes, forests, beaches, and scenic walks. We value continuous learning and teamwork to improve every aspect of our work.

Role Overview

As a Management Accountant, you will be much more than a financial specialist. Acting as a trusted advisor, you will assist activity managers and business units with strategic financial decision-making. Your contributions through financial modelling, data analysis, and advice will influence the council's service delivery and capital investments to provide value both now and into the future. You will play a key role in formulating major planning documents and reporting while aiding in streamlining financial systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in developing long-term plans, annual budgets, asset management strategies, and financial policies.
• Collaborate with managers to prepare and oversee budgets, providing relevant insights and detailed financial reporting.
• Create business cases and financial models, incorporating cost-benefit assessments and scenario analyses.
• Maintain loan schedules and reserve accounts and produce reports on capital projects underway.
• Support monthly financial reporting, audit preparations, and yearly reporting obligations.
• Provide training to managers concerning financial procedures and system usage.
• Offer timely, high-quality financial advice to aid decision-making across the council.

Candidate Profile

You are an effective communicator capable of translating financial data into clear narratives that support management decisions. Comfortable working both independently and in teams, you enjoy assisting others with budget management.

What You Bring

• A relevant accounting degree, with CA or CPA qualifications preferred or in progress.
• Experience applying advanced financial concepts in a business environment.
• Background in financial planning, analysis, and reporting, ideally within local government or a comparable sector.
• Strong skills in financial modelling and analytics to provide practical and straightforward advice.
• Experience developing business plans and guiding senior leaders through financial decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach.
• Effective time management, strong attention to detail, and ability to prioritize multiple tasks.

Our Values

• Continuous learning and improvement
• Passion and pride in our work
• Teamwork and collaboration
• People-focused approach
• Environmental stewardship

Additional Information

This is a permanent full-time position based onsite in Whakatāne, New Zealand. We are looking to fill this role as soon as possible.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close on 25 October 2026.