Drive strategic financial leadership in a future-focused Council
We’re not looking for a traditional Chief Financial Officer (CFO), we’re looking for a bold, influential CFO who will challenge the norm, lift capability, and position finance as a strategic partner across the organisation.
This is a newly created executive role, formed as part of our Setting Up for Success transformation, a deliberate step to strengthen leadership, modernise how we operate, and build long-term financial sustainability.
As CFO, you’ll lead our financial direction, not just balancing the books, but helping shape the decisions, services, and investments that matter most to our district. You’ll bring clarity, insight, and energy, and you’ll communicate with confidence across all levels, from elected members to operational teams and community stakeholders.
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading a future-ready financial strategy that supports sustainable growth and smarter investment
- Positioning finance as a proactive business partner, driving performance and continuous improvement
- Building a high-performing, trusted finance team that enables confidence and accountability
- Communicating complex financial matters clearly and credibly to all audiences — internal and external
- Driving a culture of commercial awareness, strategic thinking, and fiscal responsibility
What we’re looking for:
- Extensive experience in senior financial leadership, ideally in local government or a complex organisation
- CA, CPA, or CMA qualified, with strong commercial and strategic acumen
- Proven ability to lead financial transformation and influence organisation-wide improvement
- A confident, compelling communicator, able to engage, inform, and influence across all levels
- A values-driven leader who builds trust, sharpens performance, and inspires progress
Why Westland?
This is more than a CFO role, it’s a chance to lead transformation from the inside out. You’ll be part of a renewed executive team, with direct influence over how we strengthen our financial governance, lift capability, and support smarter, more strategic decisions across Council.At Westland District Council, you’ll join a team that’s embracing transformation and committed to delivering for its communities. You’ll be part of a progressive, connected organisation that’s investing in its people, systems, and future. We offer:
- KiwiSaver 3% employer contribution
- 3 days extra leave between Christmas and New Year’s
Our vision: By investing in our people, caring for the environment, respecting the Mana Whenua cultural heritage, and enabling investment, growth, and development we will enrich our district and the people that reside here.
Apply now
This is your chance to work in the Westland District. Apply directly on our website: https://www.westlanddc.govt.nz/your-council/careers/
An application form, along with a full CV and cover letter is required to apply for the position. You must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.
For enquiries about the role, please email hr@westlanddc.govt.nz.
Applications close 3 August 2025 or when the vacancy is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.