Commercial Finance Manager

About the opportunity

This is a senior commercial finance position with a well-established food manufacturing business in Auckland. The role sits close to the leadership team and is designed for someone who can do more than manage the numbers: you will help shape commercial decisions, test assumptions, and work side by side with Sales and Operations to improve margins, strengthen cost control, and support long-term growth.

You will be accountable for the full finance function, including reporting, cash flow, budgeting, and forecasting. Because the finance team is small, this is a very hands-on role that also covers transactional oversight and weekly payroll administration for waged employees. You will lead one part-time AP/AR team member, setting expectations, supporting their development, and helping maintain a positive and collaborative team culture.

This position has strong visibility across the business and involves close interaction with the CEO, as well as contribution to board reporting and strategic planning. It will suit someone who enjoys variety, influence, and being embedded in the commercial drivers of the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare month-end financials and deliver reporting
• Manage cash flow and related planning
• Analyse commercial performance and identify opportunities to lift profitability
• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting cycles
• Oversee credit control activities
• Coordinate weekly payroll for waged staff, including liaison with an external payroll provider to ensure accuracy and timely processing

What you will bring

You are a commercially minded finance professional with strong technical capability and practical business judgment. You are comfortable operating in a hands-on environment, moving between detail and strategy, and using evidence-based analysis to influence stakeholders.

You should have solid experience in financial management, reporting, and people leadership, along with the ability to perform well in a fast-moving operational setting. Clear communication, calmness under pressure, curiosity, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving are important in this role.

Experience in a commercial trading environment is essential, and exposure to manufacturing or FMCG businesses is also required.

Additional requirements

• Previous experience in a hands-on financial leadership position
• Strong time management and prioritisation skills
• A genuine commitment to continuous improvement
• Ability to adapt to change in a dynamic manufacturing environment

What is on offer

• Board-level visibility
• Work aligned to manufacturing hours
• Full ownership of the finance function

Application and work eligibility

Applications should be submitted through this advertisement. The employer will review submissions as they are received and will be in contact with shortlisted candidates.

For questions, contact Sarah White on 027 505 3472 and mention Job ID: 17795 for a confidential discussion.

Applicants must be a New Zealand citizen, a New Zealand resident, or already hold the legal right to work in New Zealand with a valid visa.

References will be requested later in the process, so they should not be included on the CV at the time of application.

About the employer

The recruiting organisation is a specialist group with teams focused on different areas, working together to connect people with opportunities and employers with the right talent.