Financial Controller

Permanent \| Full time

Do you want to be part of a dedicated team who are responsible for shaping the future of Upper Hutt?

Upper Hutt is recognised as a great place for families and for people who enjoy the best of our gorgeous natural environment. The team at Upper Hutt City Council work together to enhance the quality of life in Upper Hutt by providing leadership, support and services to our community.

A great opportunity is available to join a fast-paced, dynamic and high-performing team as our Financial Controller. Reporting to the Group Manager Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions, you will lead our Finance Team and have responsibility for the effective functioning of the team, our business improvement strategy and our statutory reporting.

Key responsibilities in this role include:

• Lead, support and develop the Finance Team, setting the annual work programme and ensuring great service and quality for the wider business.
• Lead the financial aspects of our statutory reporting, including the Annual Report, Annual Plan and Long-Term Plan.
• Drive continuous improvement across Finance, including our systems, controls, policies and processes.
• Provide strategic financial advice and support to the Group Manager Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions.
• Act as business partner to the Chief Executive's office and Performance and Capability team.

To be considered for this role we are ideally looking for:

• Chartered Accountant (CA ANZ or equivalent) qualification
• Experience as a people leader in a finance team or accounting firm.
• Sound knowledge and experience of modern finance systems and processes.
• Proven experience in leading change in financial processes and systems.
• Solid understanding of financial reporting standards.
• Confidence addressing a governing body.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with advanced skills in Microsoft Office.
• Knowledge of local government funding legislation, particularly the Local Government Act 2002 and the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, would be an advantage but is not essential.

Working with the Upper Hutt City Council is a rewarding way to support the community, work with a great team. We do more than just pay you a salary, we have a range of great benefits to support you and offer flexibility for hybrid working.

All applications must include a cover letter, CV and a completed online Upper Hutt City Council application form.

Applications close at 5pm on 29 November 2026.

We reserve the right to interview and select candidates prior to the closing date.

Please note, you must have the legal right to work in New Zealand to apply for this role.