Shape the financial future of a thriving rural district where strategic impact meets genuine community connection
The Manawatū offers something special, a proudly rural heartland with rich farmland, a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a lifestyle that balances space and pace. Feilding, just 20 minutes from Palmerston North and under two hours from Wellington, gives you room to breathe while keeping you connected.
Manawatū District Council is a values-driven organisation guided by the principle Kia papa te tū, kia rangi te tiro – standing firm in our roots while looking to the future. We're future-focused, collaborative, and committed to delivering services that make a real difference to our connected, vibrant, and thriving communities. People value working here because the environment is supportive, the leadership is authentic, and the contribution you make is visible and meaningful.
At this time, we are seeking a Chief Financial Officer to join our Executive Leadership Team and lead our finance function. This is a critical leadership role with a real opportunity to have impact and influence. You will be a key partner to the Chief Executive, the Executive Leadership Team, and elected members. You will be responsible for shaping long-term financial strategy, managing treasury and risk, overseeing statutory reporting, and ensuring the responsible stewardship of public funds.
The right person for this role will bring deep expertise in financial management, ideally honed in local government or the public sector, and hold a Chartered Accountant qualification (CAANZ). You will be a leader who can build, empower and lead high-performing teams with the ability to communicate complex financial matters with clarity, and operate with composure and sound judgment at the executive table.
Just as importantly, you'll be someone who thrives on being close to the work, where your decisions have direct impact on infrastructure investment, community outcomes, and organisational performance.
If you're ready for a rewarding executive role in a district where lifestyle and professional challenge come together, and where your leadership will truly matter, we'd like to hear from you.