Head of Finance

Head of Finance job description

The Head of Finance leads the financial strategy, governance, and performance management functions to ensure financial sustainability and compliance across the organisation. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing financial operations, statutory reporting, and business partnering across New Zealand-based stakeholders.

Head of Finance duties and responsibilities of the job

Key responsibilities of a Head of Finance include:

Leading the development and execution of financial strategy aligned with organisational goals

Overseeing end-to-end financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning

Ensuring compliance with NZ IFRS, IRD obligations (GST, PAYE, FBT, provisional tax), and audit requirements

Providing strategic financial advice to the executive team and board

Managing statutory and management reporting, including year-end close and external audits

Driving continuous improvement in financial processes, systems, and controls

Leading finance transformation initiatives and systems upgrades (e.g. SAP, Xero, MYOB)

Developing and mentoring finance teams to build capability and resilience

Partnering with internal and external stakeholders to support commercial and strategic initiatives

Head of Finance job qualifications and requirements

A degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is required. CA ANZ or CPA Australia qualification is essential.

Requirements include:

10+ years’ experience in senior finance roles, including leadership of finance teams

Deep knowledge of New Zealand accounting standards (NZ IFRS) and IRD compliance

Proven track record in strategic planning, financial leadership, and risk management

Strong systems experience with ERP and reporting tools (e.g. SAP, Power BI)

Experience managing external audits and liaising with auditors and regulatory bodies

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills at executive and board level

Demonstrated ability to drive organisational performance through financial insight and leadership

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Salary for Head of Finance

200000 - 270000

25th percentile

200000

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.

50th percentile

235000

The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.

75th percentile

270000

The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.

Projected salaries for related positions

Job title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

Finance Manager

145000

160000

180000

Financial Controller

180000

215000

250000

Chief Financial Officer (SME)

275000

300000

350000

Chief Financial Officer (Large / MN)

300000

400000

500000

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