Head of Finance

Masterton District Council is a values-driven organisation committed to delivering high-quality services and outcomes for our community. We are proud to play a key role in shaping the future of the district and improving the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit here.

Our people are at the heart of what we do. We foster a supportive, collaborative, and high‑performing workplace where staff are encouraged to contribute ideas, develop their skills, and make a meaningful difference to the community.

We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates who are passionate about public service and committed to helping deliver positive outcomes for Masterton.

We’re looking for a practical, hands‑on finance leader to join us as our Head of Finance in a permanent, full‑time role.

This is a pivotal leadership position responsible for guiding the finance team and ensuring the effective day‑to‑day delivery of all financial operations across Council. You will lead core activities including financial reporting, budgeting, audit coordination, and the maintenance of strong financial controls, while providing clear, reliable, and timely insights to support organisational and strategic decision‑making.

As a senior leader, you’ll bring a strong focus on people leadership, building capability in the finance team, providing clear direction, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. You’ll be confident leading from the front, coaching and mentoring staff, setting clear expectations through annual development plans, and creating an environment where the team can perform consistently at its best.

This is a hands‑on role where you’ll stay close to the detail while taking ownership of how finance operates across the organisation. You’ll drive improvements to processes, controls, and systems, making the most of existing tools and introducing smarter solutions where needed, to lift performance, efficiency, and overall capability.

This role will suit someone who thrives in an operational leadership role, balancing day‑to‑day delivery with continuous improvement, leading a team through change, and making a real impact on how finance operates at Council.

Further information about this role and about Council can be found by downloading the job description or by contacting Gina Imlach, Manager People and Capability on 06370 6300.

You’ll be an experienced finance professional who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and has a proven ability to lead teams to deliver consistent, high‑quality outcomes.

You’ll bring:

• Tertiary accounting and/or finance qualification (CA or CPA preferred)
• Significant experience in financial accounting or finance management roles
• Proven experience leading and developing teams
• Strong expertise in financial reporting, meeting audit requirements, budgeting, financial modelling and treasury management
• Experience in local government (advantageous but not essential)
• Advanced Excel and financial systems skills (experience with MagiQ or similar systems desirable)
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• The ability to translate financial information into clear, practical insights
• A proactive, organised, and solutions‑focused approach

You’ll also be:

• A clear and confident communicator
• Collaborative and service‑oriented
• Focused on delivery, accuracy, and continuous improvement
• Comfortable working across the organisation to support managers and teams

At MDC we look after our people. Benefits for permanent Council staff include:

• Subsidised medical insurance for you and your family
• Fifteen days sick leave, plus an additional five days’ domestic leave
• Great parental leave conditions
• Flexible working options
• Developmental opportunities
• An active social club

By joining MDC, you'll not only enjoy these benefits but also make a positive contribution to our amazing community!

If you're enthusiastic about this opportunity and bring the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV, Cover Letter, and completed employment application form (available from our website) to [email protected] by 5:00pm on Friday 10 July 2026. Please note that applicants may be contacted at any stage during the advertising period.

Closing Date: Applications close 5pm Friday 10 July 2026