We’re looking for a proactive and relational Finance Manager to lead Zeal’s financial stewardship.
You’ll ensure robust accounting, budgeting, cashflow management, and audit readiness across our national network — while supporting leaders to make sound, values-driven decisions.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys both the numbers and the people side of finance — turning data into insight, guiding budget holders, and strengthening systems that enable impact.
Key responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Finalise monthly accounts and maintain accurate records.
- Manage Funds in Advance, allocations, and reporting.
- Reforecast monthly, analysing variances and risks.
- Oversee cashflow and support day-to-day financial processing.
Budgeting & Leadership Support
- Lead the annual budgeting cycle with Centre Managers.
- Present budgets to the Board and track performance throughout the year.
- Translate financial data into meaningful insights for non-financial staff.
Audit, Compliance & Systems
- Prepare for annual audits and maintain compliance.
- Support MSD accreditation and insurance renewals.
- Continuously improve financial systems and workflows (Xero-based).
Funding & Accountability
- Provide financial reporting for funders and support grant applications.
- Track funding alignment to staff and projects.
People & Process Support
- Partner with HR to prepare employment agreements and variations.
- Coach managers in budgeting and spend management.
Skills and experience
Essential
- Senior accounting or financial management experience.
- Strong background managing Funds in Advance or multi-fund tracking.
- Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, and audit preparation.
- Excellent communication and coaching skills.
- Advanced Xero proficiency.
- A knack for improving systems and processes.
Preferred
- Experience in the not-for-profit or social impact sector.
- Familiarity with HR/contracting and financial automation tools.
- Experience working with multi-site or multi-fund operations.
Who You Are
- Proactive, organised, and detail-focused.
- Approachable, collaborative, and relationship-driven.
- Analytical, with a strong sense of integrity and accountability.
- Comfortable providing guidance and financial coaching.
- Always looking for smarter, simpler, better ways of doing things.
Who is Zeal?
Zeal is a leading New Zealand youth organisation whose mission is to make transformative spaces and experiences accessible to all young people in Aotearoa.
Our values and vibe
Aroha
Whanaungatanga
Manaakitanga
Rangatiratanga
Ngākau Māhaki
At Zeal, we believe every young person in Aotearoa deserves the opportunity to live a life full of meaning and purpose.
We provide transformative spaces and experiences where rangatahi are seen, valued, safe, and empowered — giving them an equitable shot to thrive.
Why Join Zeal?
Be part of a kaupapa-driven team transforming lives across Aotearoa.
Work in a supportive, flexible, and people-first environment.
Use your financial expertise to directly enable impact for young people.
Where's the job?
Your core mahi will be flexible at Zeal, the West Auckland Youth Centre and remote.
Apply for this role
This is a permanent position, full-time / part-time negotiable. Applications close 28th November 2025.
