Financial Operations Officer

Job Description:

• Fixed-term 9-month opportunity in Finance
• Exposure to a large, complex organisation
• Collaborative team with strong systems focus

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

We are seeking a Financial Operations Officer to join our Finance & Analytics Directorate on a 9-month fixed-term basis.

This role supports the delivery of efficient, accurate and customer-focused financial operations across the University. Working across accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash and bank, and procure-to-pay processes, you will play an important part in maintaining financial data integrity and supporting staff with transactional finance activities.

This is a practical, hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working within structured processes, resolving discrepancies, and contributing to continuous improvement in a busy operational environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Processing accounts payable and receivable transactions accurately and on time
• Supporting procure-to-pay activities, including invoice processing and vendor management
• Completing bank and control account reconciliations and resolving variances
• Managing supplier and customer data in line with controls and policies
• Responding to financial queries from internal and external stakeholders
• Assisting with month-end activities including journals and reconciliations
• Contributing to process and system improvements
• Providing support across the wider Financial Operations team as required

Salary will be in the range of $58,439 to $70,692 per year, prorated, based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a fixed term, full-time role (37.5 hours a week), based on our Hillcrest Campus. For more information on the role please see the position description. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You will bring experience in financial operations, with exposure to accounts payable, accounts receivable, or cash management.

You will also demonstrate:

• Experience working with an ERP system (Oracle or similar preferred)
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to prioritise tasks and meet service timeframes
• Sound communication skills and a customer-focused approach
• Strong organisational and administrative capability
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to support team outcomes

A qualification in accounting, finance, or business administration is advantageous, though equivalent practical experience will be equally valued.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The Finance & Analytics team is part of the Corporate Services Group and provides high-quality financial services, reporting and analytics to support decision-making across the University.

We work collaboratively across the organisation to ensure financial integrity, effective systems and processes, and high-quality service delivery to both internal and external stakeholders.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our university stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on April 20, 2026

Requisition number: 1003563