This role sits at the centre of Council’s growth and infrastructure challenge, leading the integration of rates, debt, funding, and capital investment into a sustainable financial strategy. Providing clear advice on trade‑offs between affordability, levels of service, and long‑term resilience, this position ensures Council can deliver for a growing district, while maintaining a strong balance sheet.
Operating at a strategic level and working closely alongside the Chief Executive, Mayor and Elected Members, the Finance and Commercial Director is a critical strategic partner within the Executive Leadership Team, at the centre of Council’s financial, growth, and investment decision‑making.
Focused on identifying new strategic partnerships and securing innovative commercial opportunities, this position is responsible for leading a sustainable financial strategy for the organisation.
The role combines sound financial stewardship with a unique opportunity to reshape traditional finance models, set new benchmarks, and leave a legacy for current and future communities through astute commercial partnerships.
Key accountabilities will include:
* Leading financial strategy including the Long Term Plan and Annual Plan
* Providing trusted financial advice, governance, risk management and statutory compliance
* Identifying and progressing commercial and alternative revenue opportunities
* Leading treasury, debt, and funding strategy
* Strengthening commercial and financial capability across the organisation
* Leading a high‑performing team and culture of continuous improvement
* Building strong relationships with auditors, regulators, funding agencies, iwi and stakeholders
Ko wai koe | About you
* Advanced leadership capability, credibility and judgement
* Extensive senior financial leadership experience, preferably including experience in local government or similar
* Demonstrated success in commercial strategy, partnerships, or alternate revenue initiatives would be a distinct advantage
* Proven experience in treasury and debt management, including capital structure, funding strategy, and managing balance sheet risk in complex or high‑growth environments
* Experience managing large-scale capital programmes or infrastructure funding
* Proven experience leading financial strategy, planning and complex reporting
* Strong understanding of NZ legislative frameworks (including the Local Government Act)
* A Chartered Accountant (CA/CPA or equivalent) with a relevant tertiary qualification
This position is based between the Cambridge and Te Awamutu offices.
Waipā District Council offers benefits that include ongoing professional development, health and life insurance, additional leave provisions, and local staff discounts.
Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.
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