Finance Lead - Uniservices

Uniservices | Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

UniServices is the University of Auckland’s research commercialisation and growth team. We sit at the intersection of research, innovation, and industry, with a mission to grow and commercialise the University’s vast footprint of research expertise.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

As Finance Lead, you will ensure robust financial management and statutory reporting for UniServices, operating at both strategic and operational levels. Reporting to the CEO and sitting on the executive team, you’ll lead a small finance team and collaborate closely with Uniservices leadership and the University of Auckland Finance team to align processes and leverage shared tools.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and statutory accounts.
• Managing audits and ensuring compliance with IPSAS and relevant regulations.
• Providing financial analysis and modelling to support strategic decisions.
• Monitoring and mitigating financial risk, including tax exposures.
• Acting as a trusted advisor to the CEO and ELT on finance matters.
• Leading and developing a small team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including auditors and banks.

For more information, please see Position Description

This is a Permanent, full-time role (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday) with a salary range of $168,000 - $180,000 per annum plus significant incentives and benefits, depending on experience.

He kōrero mōu | About You

You are an experienced finance professional with strong technical expertise and leadership capability. You thrive in a collaborative environment and can balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.

What you’ll bring:

• Relevant tertiary qualification and professional designation (CA, CPA, or CFA required).
• Extensive experience in senior financial management roles, ideally in a shared services environment.
• Strong technical accounting skills and familiarity with NZ financial reporting standards.
• Proven ability in financial modelling, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Experience optimising finance processes and implementing best practice.
• Commercial acumen and ability to provide clear, actionable insights.
• Skilled communicator with confidence in presenting financial information to senior stakeholders.
• Experience in research, innovation, or not-for-profit sectors (advantageous but not essential).

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing and professional growth.

You’ll enjoy five weeks of annual leave and up to 6.75% employer contribution to our superannuation scheme. We provide eye-testing and glasses subsidies, along with access to discounts on health insurance and gym memberships.

Long-service recognition is part of our culture, and we’re proud to offer a supportive, culturally diverse workplace with a blended approach to office and home-based work. Flexible working arrangements are available, and we’re committed to your ongoing professional development so you can thrive in your role and beyond.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of Sunday 1st February, 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.

Please reach out to Josh Chapman [email protected] for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.