Financial Accountant

About UsBestStart is a values-driven organisation dedicated to supporting tamariki through high-quality early childhood education. With a network of centres across Aotearoa and a passionate team of educators and professionals, we're committed to creating environments where children feel safe, inspired, and ready to learn.

Behind the scenes, our Finance team plays a vital role in enabling this mission. We ensure financial operations run smoothly, reporting is accurate and timely, and strategic decisions are backed by strong data and insights. It's a collaborative, fast-paced environment where technical expertise meets purpose, and where your work directly contributes to the wellbeing and development of future generations.

What We OfferWe value our people and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support their wellbeing and growth. This includes competitive remuneration, generous professional development opportunities, discounted childcare, wellness initiatives, and access to expert support through our Employee Assistance Programme. We foster a collaborative culture where your contributions are recognised and your career can thrive.

Role SummaryWe are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Financial Accountant to join our dynamic finance team based in Tauranga. This senior-level role supports the Financial Controller and plays a critical part in ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial information across the organisation.

You will be responsible for preparing financial statements, managing cash flow, maintaining the general ledger, and overseeing month-end and year-end processes. The role also ensures compliance with accounting standards and statutory requirements while contributing to continuous process improvement and strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly Board reports with financial insights and variance analysis
• Compile annual financial statements and support external audits, including responding to auditor queries
• Develop bi-monthly cash flow forecasts and supporting documentation
• Submit statutory returns to the Ministry of Education and Statistics NZ, including location data submissions
• Ensure accurate and timely GST filings with the IRD
• Manage BNZ Compliance Certificate submissions and fund drawdown processes
• Maintain the monthly finance timetable and checklist, ensuring all items are completed
• Prepare and review month-end journals and balance sheet reconciliations
• Set up new general ledger (GL) codes and cost centres in Quantum as needed
• Approve daily banking batches, VigilantPay creditor payments, credit card transactions, and invoices in Kasper
• Review payroll reports and BNZ authorisations for accuracy and compliance
• Participate in the Finance ERP project and contribute to process mapping and system improvements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• CA or CPA qualified, or currently working towards qualification
• Proven experience in financial accounting and reporting within a medium to large organisation
• Advanced Excel skills and strong proficiency in accounting systems and Microsoft Office applications
• Experience managing month-end and year-end processes, including responding to audit queries and compiling financial statements for audit purposes
• High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Commitment to continuous improvement and supporting team development
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and interpersonal skills

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in a purpose-driven organisation, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of early learning in New Zealand.

For a copy of the Job Description visit PD-Financial-