Acting Financial Controller

Who are we?

We’re here to help people live well and create a better and more sustainable future. We support healthy and liveable communities by delivering water, sewerage and recycled water services to 1.77 million people who rely on us every day and every night. At South East Water, we innovate with purpose and act with care to deliver healthy water for life. Fresh thinking and collaboration are at the heart of our organisation. We are constantly learning, embracing the challenges of today and excited by the opportunities that tomorrow will bring.  

The role

A great opportunity is now available for a finance professional seeking their next challenge!  The role of Acting Financial Controller is a parental leave backfill for a period of approximately 17 months.

Reporting into the Group Manager Finance, you’ll be responsible for managing South East Water’s key financial reporting obligations, as well as providing expert advice in technical areas in order to ensure compliance with legislative guidelines, company policy, internal controls, accounting standards and audit requirements.

You will seamlessly oversee both operational and strategic financial functions, including external financial reporting, the development of accounting and internal control policies, financial systems and processes, treasury and cash management, external audit coordination, tax planning and return preparation, accounts payable and the management of bulk water, parks and drainage charges.

Accountable for the management, direction and development of a multi-disciplinary team, including two direct reports (in an overall team of six), you’ll also support the finance team’s digital transformation and full transition to Oracle ERP.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, this is an excellent opportunity to dip your toes in the water and gain valuable experience!

Who are you?

You’ll be a finance professional, with a strong knowledge and understanding of the water industry and its commercial and regulatory requirements.

Backed by a tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline (accounting and/or finance) you’ll naturally possess a post graduate qualification as a CPA or CA.

The following key skills, knowledge and experience will ensure your seamless integration into the team:

• Strong and proven leadership and team management experience that fosters a sense of common purpose.
• Exceptional communication skills (both written and verbal) to convey information clearly and logically, present and influence key stakeholders across all levels up to Board.
• Strong financial skills and judgement, including experience in financial analysis techniques and methodologies, forecasting, accounting and reporting, as well as an understanding of relevant legislative requirements.
• Ability to build strong stakeholder relationships, including the ability to challenge and support key stakeholders simultaneously, to meet internal and external customer needs.
• High level of analytical and problem resolution skills
• Strong understanding in system processes and controls, with the ability to identify and respond to financial management and compliance risks.
• High proficiency in MS Office suite products to quickly develop complex spreadsheets, reports and presentations. Oracle ERP experience is highly regarded.

What's in it for you?

Working at South East Water means you can enjoy a wealth of benefits, starting with the chance to be part of an organisation deeply committed to environmental initiatives and sustainability; one who has been recognised as one of the top 101 Workplaces for Women in Australia by Work180 for the past two consecutive years.   

South East Water cultivates a dynamic culture that emphasises collaboration and strong work ethics, supported by career-focused learning and development opportunities. 

As a SEW employee, you can enjoy the following offerings from our benefits package:

• Access to My Fitness Passport, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), annual flu shots, and health checks.  
• Work-life balance with flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work options.
• Life insurance and salary continuance. 
• Additional leave offerings, such as cultural and ceremonial leave and study leave.  
• Head office with modern facilities and panoramic beachfront views, a separate parents' room, a prayer and meditation room, an onsite cafe, and free parking. 
• Opportunity to be part of great initiatives involving the local community  

We're for everyone

Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. It makes us better learners, thinkers and collaborators, helping create better outcomes for our customers.  

We are deeply committed to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, and we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ individuals, people with disability and jobseekers of all ages and cultures. We aim to provide an inclusive, accessible workplace where everyone is welcome, safe, and celebrated. If you need any help with the application process or would like to discuss your reasonable adjustments during interviews, please reach out to our Talent team at careers@southeastwater.com.au. 

Keen to make an impact?

Click here to check out the position description. We're accepting applications for this exciting opportunity until Sunday 16 March 2025!

To be considered for this opportunity, you must hold unrestricted working rights for the period of employment at the time of application.  Successful candidates will also be required to undergo a number of pre-employment checks, including a police records check 

South East Water operates a 24/7 service environment. Whilst this role does not involve after-hours rostered duty, all employees may be required to provide out of hours support from time to time as required. 

Visit southeastwater.com.au to learn more about us and how we serve our customers.