Financial Controller

at; South Australia; On-site; AUD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing resources and energy organisation in Australia is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead the financial function, including governance, compliance, budgeting, and reporting. Candidates must possess a tertiary qualification in Accounting or Finance and over 15 years of senior finance experience, ideally in similar sectors. This role demands strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills, along with the ability to operate independently.

Qualifications

• 15+ years' experience in a senior finance role, preferably in resources/energy.
• Deep knowledge of Australian corporate, tax, and compliance requirements.
• Ability to operate independently with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial governance, reporting, and compliance.
• Support organisational leadership and strategic initiatives.
• Manage cashflow forecasting and financial analysis.

Skills

Leadership capability

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Accounting or Finance

Job description

About the Role

An opportunity exists for an experienced Financial Controller to lead the financial function of a growing resources/energy organisation. This role suits a senior finance professional who enjoys shaping systems, improving processes, and partnering closely with the executive team in a dynamic environment.

You will oversee financial governance, reporting, compliance, budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, taxation, payroll, accounts payable, insurance programs and financial modelling for major projects. The position plays a key leadership role in supporting organisational growth and ensuring strong financial stewardship.

The Financial Controller reports directly to the Managing Director.

Key Responsibilities

Support organisational leadership and contribute to business planning and strategic growth initiatives.

Act as a champion for continuous improvement and positive culture.

Model effective leadership across the business.

Finance Team & People Development

Provide direction, support and feedback to finance staff (if/when team members are added).

Build a high‑performing, cooperative finance team.

Lead training, development and annual appraisal processes.

Oversee all finance functions, including:

• Statutory reporting (half‑year and annual).
• Tax compliance (GST, FBT, payroll tax, withholding, income tax).
• Payroll and accounts payable.
• Maintain accounting policies and internal control frameworks.
• Manage external audits and liaise with auditors, tax advisors and other regulatory bodies.
• Ensure robust corporate governance practices.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis

Manage rolling monthly and quarterly cashflow forecasts.

Provide variance analysis and financial insights to the executive team.

Develop key performance metrics and financial dashboards.

Identify cost efficiencies and process improvements across the company.

Funds Management

Monitor cashflow, working capital requirements and investment opportunities.

Maintain banking relationships.

Support debt and equity financing activities.

Manage company insurance programs and claims.

Oversee financial modelling for commercial and technical projects.

Collaborate closely with operations and project teams.

Support the progression of ERP system selection and implementation.

Professional Development

Maintain relevant qualifications and industry networks.

Pursue ongoing training as required.

Work Health & Safety

Promote safe work practices and comply with WHS requirements.

Uphold organisational safety culture in all activities.

Ensure financial and organisational policies are applied consistently across the business.

Support staff with interpretation and application of policies.

Skills & Experience (Essential)

• Tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or related discipline.
• 15+ years' experience in a similar senior finance role, preferably including exposure to start‑up or early‑stage resources/energy environments.
• Some exposure to resources/energy industry operations is preferred.
• Deep knowledge of accounting theory and Australian corporate, tax and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated leadership capability and experience developing teams.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and conceptual thinking skills.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to partner with internal stakeholders and external agencies.
• Highly organised, detail‑focused and comfortable managing competing deadlines.
• Ability to operate independently with minimal supervision.
• High level of discretion, confidentiality and professional judgement.

Other Requirements

• Availability between 8am–6pm Monday–Friday, with occasional after‑hours contact as needed.
• Willingness to travel to Australian project sites.
• Current driver's licence.
• Australian work rights are required for this position.