Team Lead Accounts Payable

About the Role

Join the Department of Conservation (DOC) as a key leader in the Accounts Payable function, supporting the organisation’s vision of a thriving natural environment in Aotearoa. You will oversee the end-to-end Accounts Payable operations ensuring accuracy, adherence to compliance standards, and continual process enhancement. In this position, you will manage invoice and expense claim processing, maintain strong financial controls, and build effective vendor relationships to guarantee timely payments and audit readiness.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and take ownership of the complete Accounts Payable lifecycle, including accurate reconciliations and timely payment cycles.
• Manage invoice processing workflows, promptly addressing queries within established timelines.
• Ensure compliance with audit, tax, and internal policies, resolving audit questions effectively.
• Lead, coach, and nurture the Accounts Payable team by setting clear expectations and fostering professional development.
• Champion continuous improvement efforts for AP systems, processes, and standard operating procedures, leveraging automation to enhance efficiency.

Skills and Experience

• In-depth knowledge of procure-to-pay (P2P) processes and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Experience with SAP S/4Hana is advantageous.
• Proven background managing high-volume invoice processing and payment schedules.
• Strong aptitude for account reconciliation, meticulous attention to detail, and analytical problem-solving.
• Comprehensive understanding of audit compliance, tax obligations, and internal controls including fraud prevention and segregation of duties.
• Experience leading initiatives that improve systems and processes to increase efficiency and shorten cycle times.
• Minimum of five years in senior Accounts Payable roles within large or complex organizations.
• Strong leadership skills, including mentoring, coaching, and managing team performance.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and cultivate effective cross-departmental relationships.

About the Team

The Finance Directorate of DOC is responsible for ensuring the department’s ongoing viability through strategic financial oversight, planning, and reporting.

Benefits and Culture

DOC fosters an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace culture that encourages participation, growth, and success. Flexible work arrangements are supported, with options discussed individually based on role requirements. The salary offers range from $80,695 to $101,951 annually, reflecting skills and experience.

Additional Information

• Work location: Wellington (Greater Kapiti Area), onsite.
• Employment type: Permanent full-time.
• Applicants must be legally eligible to work in New Zealand, including holding a valid work visa if applicable.
• Recruitment agencies are not engaged for this vacancy.
• Applications close 11:59 pm, Sunday 16 August 2026; early closure is possible depending on applicant volume.

Application Instructions

Please apply online with a CV and a cover letter outlining your skills, experience, and motivation for this role. Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you require accommodations during the hiring process, let us know.