This is a large federal government department based in Canberra. Its Finance area is responsible for the department’s financial reporting, treasury functions and annual financial statements.
These are prepared under the PGPA Act and audited each year by the Australian National Audit Office.
Leading financial reporting for a federal department is a credential that carries weight across the APS and the accounting profession.
For audit and advisory professionals, it is also a chance to move from reviewing financial statements to owning them.
The Opportunity
If you are a manager in financial audit or CFO consulting, this role gives you three things that are hard to find together: your own team, a competitive salary and a hybrid arrangement with 2 days a week at home.
As the EL1 Financial Accountant, you will lead departmental financial reporting and asset management, manage a small team and report to a high-performing Director (EL2).
The role is a 12-month non-ongoing contract with strong potential for extension or a move to an ongoing position. With 15.4% super, the total package is worth around $150k to $164k.
You’ll have the chance to:
Lead and develop your own team, including one team member who works remotely
Report to a supportive Director (EL2) and present your findings to senior leaders
Own the department’s financial reporting, from monthly reporting through to year-end and the annual financial statements
Earn 15.4% employer super, well above the 12% Superannuation Guarantee minimum
Start on a 12-month contract with strong potential to extend or move into an ongoing role
The Role
You will lead financial reporting, working under limited direction on complex reporting in line with the PGPA Act and Australian Accounting Standards.
You’ll be responsible for:
Leading monthly reporting, year-end processes and the preparation of the department’s annual financial statements
Coordinating the financial statements audit with the Australian National Audit Office
Overseeing financial reporting for the department’s assets, making sure balances are accurate and well supported
Preparing high-quality financial analysis and reconciliations, and identify, investigate and resolve discrepancies, risks and issues
Developing, documenting and maintaining internal controls, policies and procedures that strengthen financial governance and audit readiness
Preparing briefs, reports and correspondence, and advise internal and external stakeholders on financial issues
Managing, mentoring and developing your team, building a culture of accuracy, accountability and continuous improvement
The Ideal Person
You are likely a manager or senior manager in a Big 4 or mid-tier firm, or already working in financial reporting in the APS, and you are good at what you do.
If you want to lead your own team and own a set of financial statements rather than audit someone else’s, this role is worth a conversation.
You will bring the following skills and experience:
A tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or Commerce
A CA or CPA qualification
Strong technical accounting and financial reporting skills, with a working knowledge of Australian Accounting Standards and accrual-based financial statements
Manager-level experience in a Big 4 or mid-tier firm, or financial reporting experience in government at the EL1 or above level
Experience leading, developing and mentoring APS staff
High-level analysis and reconciliation skills, and sound professional judgement
The ability to explain financial information clearly to senior leaders and non-finance stakeholders
Salary / Rate
$130k – $142k + 15.4% Super
12-month non-ongoing contract, with strong potential for extension or an ongoing position
Full-time, based in Canberra, with 1 – 2 days working from home each week
How to Apply
To apply online, please click on the appropriate link.
For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Eileen Cheng on 02 6108 4870 quoting ref no . 21991.
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