Mo tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

This is a unique opportunity to work at the centre of a major organisational transition. You will provide expert financial leadership, advice, and delivery across investment, funding, pricing, and financial strategy as MWL is established ahead of its go-live date of 1 July 2027.

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, this senior finance role will lead the finance and funding workstream for the WSO establishment programme and support the development of sustainable, high-quality financial operations for “day one” and beyond.

You will work closely with internal stakeholders, the WSO establishment Project Manager, consultants, and governance groups to ensure fit-for-purpose financial frameworks, policies, systems, and processes are in place.

Key areas of focus include:

• Leading the investment, funding and finance workstream for the WSO establishment
• Developing financial strategies, revenue and pricing policies, treasury and funding arrangements
• Supporting the establishment of accounting frameworks, systems and “day one” finance processes
• Acting as the key finance point of contact for the WSO establishment
• Contributing to the design of future-state financial operations and shared services models
• Budgeting, financial modelling and scenario analysis in support of the Water Services Strategy

This role is fixed term, established to manage a temporary increase in workload with in the finance department.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

• A great benefits package (including life and income protection insurance, health insurance, enhanced leave and supperanuatation and relocation support where applicable) *conditions apply
• Strong health, safety and wellbeing focus culture
• EAP support, wellness initiatives and access to Marlborough Chamber of Commerce retail discounts
• Meaningful work that supports our people and community
   

Ko ngā wheako ōu | About you

You are a highly experienced finance professional who thrives in complex, evolving environments and enjoys building things from the ground up. You are confident working at a strategic level, translating technical financial information into clear and practical advice for non-finance stakeholders.

You will bring:

• Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification or equivalent
• Ideally 12+ years’ post-qualification experience in a large or complex organisation
• Strong technical accounting capability, including Tier 1 IFRS reporting
• Proven experience in budgeting, financial modelling, and financial strategy
• Ability to influence, challenge constructively, and support sound decision-making
• A collaborative style and strong communication skills
• Confidence working through ambiguity while maintaining momentum and quality

Experience with public sector environments, large transformation programmes, or establishment projects will be highly regarded.

Ko wai mātou | About us

Marlborough District Council is a dynamic, progressive organisation which prides itself on the professionalism it brings to managing a wide range of functions. Our vision is that over the next decade, Marlborough will become a globally connected district of progressive, high-value enterprise, known for its quality lifestyle, desirable location and natural environment.

Marlborough is unique for many reasons. The region offers an array of outdoor pursuits in a distinctive and picturesque landscape. With the Marlborough Sounds, the land and sea offer unlimited accessibility for sport and leisure.

If you’re ready to make an impact in your community with Council - Tono mai | Apply now!

Applications close 5.00 pm on Sunday, 7 June 2026.

For any additional information please reach out to Geoff Blake (Chief Financial Officer) at Geoff.Blake@marlborough.govt.nz

We’re committed to ensuring our team goes home safe every day. Preferred candidates will be required to complete preemployment checks to the employer’s satisfaction. These checks may include, but are not limited to, a criminal history check, confirmation of the right to work in New Zealand, and drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive roles.