Assistant Manager / Manager - Innovation and Growth Advisory

Overview KPMG New Zealand is part of the international KPMG network and provides audit, tax and advisory services to individuals, SMEs, multi-nationals and government agencies. We believe in fuelling prosperity for all New Zealanders, guided by our shared values of Integrity, Courage, Excellence, Together, for Better. We are looking for an Assistant Manager or Manager to join KPMG’s Innovation & Growth Advisory division. The division has evolved rapidly and is growing; we seek a technically minded, big picture thinker to join the team. We support businesses from large publicly listed companies to small start-ups in navigating government funding for innovative and technically demanding projects. The main funding source we assist with is the R&D Tax Incentive (RDTI). The RDTI aims to create greater access to government funding for R&D activities by applying a more commercial lens. You will be part of a young, dynamic team expanding our offerings and helping a broad client base in the innovation and tech space. Responsibilities Facilitate technical discussions with staff ranging from scientists and engineers to CTOs about innovative projects across industries in New Zealand. Use technical knowledge to drive meaningful conversations and lead engagements with clients about their R&D work in fields such as seismic engineering, AI and machine learning, automation, agritech, food and beverage technologies, and manufacturing. Manage multiple workflows to scope and prepare applications, including providing guidance to junior staff involved in client work. Help large businesses understand ongoing innovation within their organisations, often complex due to size. Collaborate with SMEs to streamline access to funding, recognizing that funding responsibilities are shared across teams. Assist Start-Up companies in understanding funding options where immediate cash access is prioritized. Engage with government to develop and implement policies that raise New Zealand’s investment in innovation and grow the tech scene. Provide advice relating to the R&D Tax Incentive while supporting long-term strategy to assist with other funding tools to help businesses innovate and grow. Qualifications A keen interest and natural curiosity for the innovation and tech space in New Zealand and beyond. At least 5 years of experience in a technical role within software, information systems, science or engineering; experience consulting or dealing with external stakeholders is desirable. Experience with preparing or submitting R&D tax incentive or other government grant/funding applications. Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in a technical field such as science, software, or engineering. While software engineering or information systems background is desirable, it is not mandatory. Good communication skills and confidence presenting to audiences ranging from technical experts to CEOs, finance managers, and government officials. Life at KPMG KPMG values diversity and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with a disability, mental health needs, chronic health conditions or who identify as neurodivergent. If you require accessibility support during recruitment, please email [email protected]. For general questions about the role or recruitment, contact [email protected]. Benefits and other information We offer rewarding careers and a holistic range of benefits to support work-life balance, including: Access to the firm’s annual incentive scheme Opportunities for local and international secondments Hybrid working across office, client and home hubs Ability to work from overseas and connect with friends and family outside New Zealand Flexible leave options, including the ability to purchase additional annual leave Gender-neutral parental leave (18 weeks fully paid for new parents) Paid professional association membership of your choice Digital accreditations through partnerships with Microsoft and LinkedIn Learning Discounts on insurances, banking services and lifestyle goods Inclusion, Diversity and Equity affinity networks and Green Team activities Volunteer and citizenship participation opportunities Health and wellness benefits, including flu vaccinations, counselling services, wellbeing leave and resources We strive to be an employer of choice for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, generation, flexible work status, family circumstances, sexual orientation or disability. Further information is available on our website. #J-18808-Ljbffr