Senior Finance and Procurement Officer - Darwin

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Management and Reporting 

• Assist to prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and ensure compliance with internal and external reporting standards.
• Assist in annual budget preparation, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Monitor expenditure against budget and provide variance analysis and recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant financial legislation, grant requirements, and reporting frameworks.
• Maintain accurate general ledger records and manage internal control procedures.
• Support the annual audit process and contribute to financial year-end processes.
• Ensure compliance with financial and local government regulations, and internal policies.
• Ensure all taxation obligations and compliance are completed efficiently.
  

2. Procurement and Contract Oversight

• Lead Council’s procurement and tendering processes in accordance with policy and legislation.
• Manage and maintain the procurement register and contract database.
• Provide strategic procurement advice and ensure alignment with Local Government and NT Government guidelines.
• Assess and manage procurement risks, ensuring value for money, transparency, and accountability.
• Collaboratively work with grant funding bodies and grant managers to achieve successful funding acquittals and contract adherence.
  

3. Supervision and Team Leadership

• Provide oversight, guidance, and mentoring to the Finance and Payroll Officer.
• Support team capability development through training and knowledge sharing.
• Promote a collaborative and accountable finance team culture.
  

4. Stakeholder Engagement 

• Liaise with internal departments to provide financial and procurement advice.
• Prepare reports and briefings for the Executive and Council as required.
• Develop positive working relationships with external auditors, suppliers, and funding bodies.
  

5. Continuous Improvement 

• Assist in the identification and implementation of process improvements related to finance and procurement procedures.
• Stay updated on changes in accounting practices and local government legislation and regulations to ensure compliance and efficiency.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in finance and procurement.
  

Key Selection Criteria

Qualifications and Experience

• Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related discipline.
• CPA/CA accreditation or working towards professional membership (highly desirable).
• Demonstrated experience in financial management (5 years), reporting, and procurement in a local government or public sector context.
• Strong understanding of procurement legislation, contract management, and audit processes. Proven experience supervising or mentoring finance staff.
  

Knowledge and Skills

• High-level interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of staff and stakeholders effectively.
• High-level proficiency with financial and procurement software systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong commitment to ethical standards and continuous improvement.
• Experience with Xero, Approval Max and Employment Hero (desirable).
  

Commitment to Community Outcomes 

• Commitment to delivering improved community outcomes through sound financial stewardship. 
• A strong commitment to achieving meaningful outcomes for the Groote Archipelago Regional Council residents.
• Understanding of and respect for Aboriginal cultures and communities, with the ability to work collaboratively in a culturally sensitive manner.
  

Conditions of Employment 

• The role may require travel and overnight stays within the Groote Archipelago Region and occasional work outside standard hours to meet operational needs.
• Employment is subject to a satisfactory Working with Children Check, National Police Clearance, and other pre-employment screening as required.
  

This position offers a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the ongoing operation success of GARC as a Local Regional Council focused on the delivery of improved services and outcomes for its residents.

The Groote Archipelago Regional Council is a Committed Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter addressing the key responsibilities and qualifications, skills outlined in this position description or direct any enquiries to the Recruitment Team at the Groote Archipelago Regional Council via email to recruitment@groote.nt.gov.au