Team Lead Accounts Payable

Lead a high-performing Accounts Payable team driving accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement across the end-to-end procure-to-pay process $80,695.00 – $101,951.00 Permanent full time, Wellington location About the role Are you ready to take the lead in shaping a high-performing Accounts Payable function that keeps the organisation running smoothly and efficiently? This is an opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role where accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement directly support financial integrity and organisational success. In this role, you will lead the end-to-end Accounts Payable operations, ensuring timely and accurate processing of supplier invoices, expense claims (Flexipurchase), and payment cycles. You will play a key role in strengthening vendor relationships, maintaining strong financial controls, and driving process optimisation across the procure-to-pay (P2P) function. Working closely with Procurement, Purchasing, Finance leadership, and internal/external auditors, you will ensure robust compliance and efficient service delivery. You will also lead, coach, and develop a capable AP team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that supports both individual growth and team performance. Lead the end-to-end Accounts Payable function, ensuring accurate reconciliations, timely payment cycles, and audit-ready records Oversee invoice processing workflows, ensuring queries are triaged and resolved within agreed timeframes Maintain strong financial controls, supporting compliance with audit, tax, and internal policy requirements, including timely resolution of audit queries Lead, mentor, and develop the Accounts Payable team, setting clear expectations, providing feedback, and building capability Drive continuous improvement of AP systems, processes, and SOPs, supporting automation and efficiency across the P2P lifecycle Ngō pūkenga me ī wheako | Skills and experience If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you: Strong expertise in procure-to-pay (P2P) processes and ERP systems Previous experience of SAP S/4Hana is desirable Demonstrated experience managing high-volume invoice processing and payment runs Advanced capability in account reconciliation, attention to detail, and analytical problem-solving Proven understanding of audit compliance, tax requirements, and internal controls (including fraud prevention and segregation of duties) Ability to lead system and process improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and reduce cycle times Minimum 5 years’ experience in senior Accounts Payable roles within large or complex organisations Strong leadership capability, including coaching, mentoring, and performance management Ability to influence stakeholders and build effective cross-functional relationships Mō te tīma | About the team The Finance Directorate ensures the viability of the Department through strategic financial management and by planning, measuring, and reporting its year-to-year business and financial interests. What’s in it for you? DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. We support flexible work arrangements for our kaimahi who are working in a wide variety of roles and locations across Aotearoa. Flexible options will be considered based on your role and in discussion with your leader. You can learn more about what we offer here. Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 16 August 2026. Depending on the volume of applications received, we may close this advertisement early, so please submit your application as soon as possible. Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role. For further enquiries, please contact Kerry Stratton, [email protected] Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tũroa The Department of Conservation, Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. Ko ā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles. Read more about DOC #J-18808-Ljbffr