Senior Financial Fixed Assets Accountant (Regulatory)

About the role

Watercare is seeking a senior specialist to own the Regulatory Asset Base (RAB) and ensure its integrity, governance and compliance across the full asset lifecycle. This high‑impact position works closely with Finance, Economic Regulation, Projects and Operations, and regularly engages with auditors, valuers and regulators.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the RAB governance framework, including methodology, policies, controls and documentation standards.
• Serve as the subject‑matter expert and escalation point for complex regulatory fixed‑asset accounting issues.
• Lead regulatory asset reporting and disclosures to meet Commerce Commission requirements.
• Perform statutory‑to‑regulatory reconciliations (depreciation, asset lives, valuation bases, capitalisation differences).
• Manage the regulatory component of audit and assurance, resolve findings and provide evidence.
• Govern capitalisation, FAR and Regulatory WIP, ensuring data quality and timely commissioning.
• Partner with project, asset and operational teams to improve handover, data quality and regulatory outcomes.
• Mentor and uplift capability across the Financial Assets team and wider business.

Required profile

• Degree in Accounting or Finance with CAANZ/CPA (or equivalent) qualification.
• 5+ years’ experience in fixed‑asset/infrastructure accounting, financial reporting or audit.
• Strong understanding of NZ GAAP and PBE IPSAS.
• Ability to form and defend technical positions and engage confidently with senior stakeholders.

Required skills

• Regulatory asset accounting
• NZ GAAP
• PBE IPSAS
• Fixed‑asset accounting
• Financial reporting
• Audit processes

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on a $14 billion 10‑year investment programme.
• High visibility across finance, regulation and operations.
• Professional development and mentorship within a large infrastructure environment.