CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)

Central Tablelands Water is a single-purpose County Council providing potable water to over 15,000 customers across 13 towns and villages. We supply potable water for residential, industrial, and rural use across an area spanning approximately 14,000 sq/km.

Central Tablelands Water is now recruiting for the newly created position of Chief Financial Officer. This position is a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and is responsible for overseeing and managing the entire financial requirements for the organisation. You will ensure the organisation is agile, sustainable, and critical data is available to support strategic and operational decisions.

The position is a predominately office-based position located in Blayney NSW.

Why join the Central Tablelands Water Team?
We are proud of the culture we have cultivated — one built on integrity, collaboration, and growth.

Our leaders are empowered to make bold decisions, drive innovation, and create meaningful change. At Central Tablelands Water, you will be part of something bigger than yourself, working alongside a diverse and driven team that shares your commitment to excellence.

Moreover, we believe that work should be enjoyable and fulfilling. We foster a workplace where satisfaction and enjoyment are integral to our daily operations. Our team members find joy in their work, knowing that their contributions are valued and that they are making a real difference in our communities.
If you are someone who thrives in an environment where your leadership and vision can create tangible results, where creativity and strategic thinking are celebrated, and where you can find true satisfaction and enjoyment in your work, we want to hear from you.
Together, we can shape the future, exceed expectations, and achieve remarkable things!!

Your key responsibilities will include
• Lead and continuously improve all financial activities of Council (procurement, revenue, accounts payable, payroll, and accounting functions) including evaluation of financial performance to improve business processes and deliver cost efficiencies.
• Undertake the annual budgeting process including the preparation of budget estimates, tracking financial performance including reporting and analysis of quarterly budget reviews, and identifying, reporting and advising on variances and trends in order for Council to achieve its operational priorities and statutory obligations.
• Prepare and provide ongoing review of the financial components of Council's Integrated Planning & Reporting framework including preparation of the Long-Term Financial Plan and other strategic financial reports and policies in support of Council's financial sustainability for Council to enable effective decision making and facilitate strategic business and financial planning.
• Manage the preparation of all aspects of Council's financial statements and associated statutory returns in compliance with accounting standards, regulatory and statutory requirements.
• Participate in internal audits and service reviews undertaken for the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee.
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of the payroll function including compliance with superannuation requirements.
• Perform the role of Council's Designated Responsible Accounting Officer in compliance with relevant regulations and statutory responsibilities and ensuring Council financial records are kept in accordance with the Local Government Act and other regulations.
• Develop financial reporting systems and prepare financial reports including the Annual Report that meet best practice and satisfy legislative obligations. Internal reporting should include opinion on Council's financial position along with financial and non-financial indicators.
• Oversee the investment of Council's funds in accordance with Council's Investment Policy which optimises return on investment in a fiscally responsible manner.
• Oversee and prepare statutory returns for Goods and Services Tax, Fringe Benefits Tax and Payroll Tax.
• Provide accurate financial reports that are timely, relevant, and contribute towards efficient management of Council’s resources as required.
• Have the capacity to provide independent and frank advice to Management and Council to promote the best outcomes in respect to Financial Management and Sustainability.
• Please refer to the full description for more information

Essential Criteria
• Tertiary qualifications in finance accounting or business.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a similar finance role preferably within a local government setting, preparing budgets, annual financial statements, long term financial plans, asset management plans, investment plans and providing financial advice to the ELT.
• Strong knowledge of the requirements of the Local Government Act 1933 and Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting.
• Demonstrated high level analytical skills, research, problem solving and commercial business acumen within a local government service context.
• Demonstrated previous leadership skills with the ability to participate in organisational change, fostering a collaborative environment, drive continuous improvement, and develop a culture of trust within the organisation.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence people, build effective relationships, and achieve positive outcomes including the ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriate professional conduct.
• High-level communication skills and the ability to interpret financial data and engage with both internal teams and external stakeholders to achieve strategic objectives.
• Proven experiencing in leading, motivating and mentoring a team.
• A good understanding of financial management systems, spreadsheets (Excel), databases and word processing. (Experience with Local Government software specifically Synergysoft and the LG Solutions reporting suite would be an advantage).
• Ability to prepare complex reports and returns for Council and Government Authorities.

What is on offer?
• An attractive salary negotiated with the successful candidate between $118,571 to $139,292 gross per annum depending on skills and local government experience.
• Option for a fully maintained Leaseback vehicle.
• A 70 hour, 9-day fortnight for flexibility and work – life balance.
• An exciting opportunity to be a key member of the leadership team in a dynamic and progressive organisation.

Please download the Information Pack & Position Description or contact CTW office during business hours 02 63917200 or email to [email protected]

Applications close at 5.00pm on Wednesday 30th April 2025