Principal Financial Accountant

About the role

The Principal Financial Accountant will sit at the heart of the finance function for a large central government agency, providing strategic oversight of external reporting, Treasury submissions and the overall financial control framework. Reporting to the Financial Controller, this senior technical position will ensure compliance with public sector financial management requirements and act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the organisation’s external financial reporting, including Annual Reports, forecasts and budget cycles.
• Oversee Treasury reporting and submissions in line with the Public Finance Act and PBE accounting standards.
• Manage the full accounting cycle and ensure robust financial controls and risk management practices.
• Provide authoritative accounting advice and mentor finance professionals.
• Engage with external auditors, central agencies and senior internal stakeholders.
• Deputise for the Financial Controller as required.

Required profile

• Qualified Chartered Accountant (CAANZ or equivalent).
• Extensive experience in financial accounting and external reporting within a complex, preferably public‑sector, organisation.
• Strong knowledge of Treasury reporting, Public Finance Act requirements and PBE accounting standards.
• Proven ability to design and implement financial control frameworks.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Required skills

• Proficiency with SAP financial management system.

What we offer

• High‑impact role within a large, complex public‑sector environment.
• Exposure to senior leadership and central government stakeholders.
• Opportunity to shape financial control and reporting frameworks at an organisational level.
• Collaborative, purpose‑driven culture based in Wellington.