About Nelson City Council | E pā ana ki te Kaunihera o Whakatū

Nelson City Council is dedicated to shaping a creative, sustainable, and prosperous future for the people of Whakatū. As an organisation, the Council prides itself on long-term thinking, responsible financial stewardship, and delivering services and infrastructure that genuinely improve community wellbeing.

You’ll be joining a collaborative, forward‑focused organisation with a strong culture of shared learning, innovation, and professional growth. The Corporate Services Group in particular is known for its supportive environment, strong internal partnerships, and commitment to continuous improvement.

About the Role | Kō tēnei tūranga mahi

This is a key strategic leadership role within Council’s Senior Leadership Team, responsible for shaping and delivering the financial direction that will guide Nelson’s future.

Reporting to the Executive Director Corporate Services, you will lead a team of 20 (including three direct reports) and take full ownership of financial strategy, sustainability, statutory reporting, treasury, tax, funding, and financial planning.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing strategic financial leadership to SLT and Council
Leading the development and implementation of financial strategies aligned with the Long-Term Plan
Overseeing statutory reporting, treasury, tax, and funding functions
Ensuring transparent, accurate, and sustainable financial practices
Leading budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning
Building capability and engagement within the finance team
Driving system improvements and enhancing financial insights across the organisation

This is a high‑impact role with influence across major projects, long-term planning, and critical financial decisions that shape the future of Whakatū Nelson.

About You | Ko ngā pūmanawa ō

You are an experienced and credible senior finance leader, confident advising at Executive and Council level and skilled at navigating complexity with clarity, professionalism, and good judgement.

You will bring:

Proven experience in financial leadership and strategic planning
A CA/CPA qualification
Experience within Local Government or a similarly complex environment (ideal but not essential)
Strong leadership and coaching capability
Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills
Advanced analytical capability and the ability to deliver insight-driven advice
Full eligibility to work in Aotearoa New Zealand

You’re motivated by public service and ready to influence the long-term financial sustainability of one of the most dynamic and naturally beautiful regions in the country.

What we offer | Ko ngā painga mōu

Beyond the organisation itself, Nelson offers an exceptional lifestyle. With its stunning natural landscapes, thriving arts and culture scene, and reputation as one of Aotearoa’s sunniest regions, Whakatū is an inspiring place to live, work, and contribute. The region’s beaches, national parks, creative energy, and relaxed pace of life make it an incredible location for those seeking balance alongside meaningful leadership

Wellbeing leave, platforms and initiatives
A flexible workplace including hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance
Generous leave provisions
Learning and professional development opportunities
Access to various employee benefits and discounts
Opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects that shape our community's wellbeing and future
Mountains, beaches and national parks at your doorstep

Applications close | Rā whakakapi

Applications will be reviewed as received, and the vacancy may close early if a suitable candidate is found. We encourage you to apply without delay.

For further enquiries | Ina he pātai anō, whakapā mai

Please reach out to Sydnie Faulknor - People & Capability Adviser on sydnie.faulknor@ncc.govt.nz

At Nelson City Council, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and has a true sense of belonging. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from diverse ethnicities and cultures, LGBTQ+ communities, neurodivergent individuals, and people with disabilities. If you require any assistance with your application, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Chief Financial Officer | Kaiwhakahaere PūteaHybrid