Principal Financial Accountant

• Competitive AO7 Equivalent Package

About Our Client

We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Principal Financial Accountant to join a large and complex public sector organisation. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior finance professional to play a key role in financial reporting, compliance, asset accounting and financial governance while providing trusted advice to senior stakeholders.

Working within a high-performing finance team, you will contribute to the delivery of accurate financial reporting, statutory compliance and continuous improvement initiatives that support organisational objectives.

Job Description

• Provide specialist financial accounting advice to management and key stakeholders.
• Lead and support the preparation of statutory financial reports, annual financial statements and compliance reporting.
• Manage and oversee asset accounting activities, ensuring accuracy and integrity of financial records.
• Monitor financial controls and governance processes to maintain high standards of financial compliance.
• Analyse financial information and general ledger data to identify risks, issues and improvement opportunities.
• Prepare high-quality reports, briefings, submissions and financial advice for senior management.
• Support internal and external audit requirements and respond to complex accounting matters.
• Develop and maintain strong stakeholder relationships across business units and operational teams.
• Contribute to the ongoing enhancement of financial accounting practices, systems and reporting processes.
• Provide leadership, guidance and support within the finance function.

The Successful Applicant

• Demonstrated experience in financial accounting within a large and complex organisation.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including financial reporting, statutory compliance and audit requirements.
• Proven ability to prepare financial statements, analyse financial information and provide sound advice to stakeholders.
• Highly developed communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence outcomes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Advanced Excel capabilities and experience working with large ERP systems such as SAP or similar.
• A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement, process enhancement and financial governance.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Commerce or Business, with CA, CPA or equivalent professional membership highly regarded.
• Previous experience within government or another highly regulated environment, along with exposure to asset accounting and financial governance frameworks, will be viewed favourably.

What's on Offer

• Opportunity to join a respected and collaborative finance team.
• Exposure to complex financial accounting and reporting activities.
• Variety, autonomy and stakeholder engagement at a senior level.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Potential extension beyond the initial contract period.
• Competitive salary package aligned to AO7 equivalent level.