Project Finance Manager

AusNet Services; Ballarat; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

AusNet Services is seeking a Project Finance Manager to oversee financial outcomes for the Western Renewables Link (WRL) project. You will lead the accounting team and ensure accurate financial governance and reporting in SAP.

In collaboration with the WRL Leadership Team, you will drive strategic financial planning, manage budgets and compliance with IFRS and AAS, and mentor a high‑performing finance team. Occasional site travel to Ballarat is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor level degree in accounting/finance or related field.
• Professional certification in finance or accounting (e.g., CA/CPA/CFA).
• 10+ years in finance/accounting, with complex infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial outcomes for the WRL project and lead the accounting team.
• Ensure financial governance and timely reporting in SAP.
• Partner with WRL Leadership to drive strategic financial outcomes and budgeting.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing finance team.

Skills

Financial analysis

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

IFRS knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or related field

Professional certification (CA/CPA/CFA or equivalent)

Tools

SAP

Excel

Job description

We bring the energy!

Through purpose and people – not just through the infrastructure we operate, but through the way we show up for each other, our customers and our communities. The future of energy is in our hands. Let's shape it together.

Are you ready to shape the future of energy?

This role will see you responsible for overseeing and providing leadership in the management of financial outcomes for the Western Renewables Link (WRL) project. As the Project Finance Manager you will enable the delivery of strategic, operational and financial accountabilities for the project.

What you'll help deliver

• Manage financial risk and opportunity across the WRL project, leading the accounting team, overseeing and maintaining the General Ledger
• Ensuring financial management is conducted in accordance with the guidelines, processes and procedures that exist withing the upstream and downstream Incentivised Target Cost Delivery Deeds.
• Partner with WRL Leadership Team to develop and drive strategic outcomes whilst ensuring appropriate financial governance and risk management oversight.
• Collaborate and actively engage with the WRL Leadership Team enabling effective management of project budgets and other costs consistent with all stakeholder and statutory requirements to ensure accurate financial management of respective budgets.
• Develop and lead a high performing Finance team through coaching, mentoring and fostering a sense of accountability and belonging.
• Ensure reporting and forecasting processes produce accurate, insightful and timely information in line with WRL contractual obligations and AusNet requirements.
• Financial reporting: Development of periodic reporting processes in SAP and forecasting models to produce reporting consistent with project cost classifications / budgets and AusNet corporate requirements
• Compliance and external relationships: actively engaging with internal and external stakeholders, maintaining awareness of project requirements and AusNet policies and procedures.

You don't need to check every box, however we're looking for a good combination of:

• A Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or related field essential
• Professional certification in Finance or Accounting (e.g. chartered Accountant, Certified Practising Accounting, Chartered Financial Analyst or equivalent
• At least 10+ years' experience in Finance or Accounting related roles, working on complex major infrastructure projects.
• Deep understanding of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and Australian Accounting Standards (AAS).
• Significant experience in financial management roles, preferably in large organisations, the utilities section or Alliance or Incentivised Target Cost commercial frameworks.
• Strong ability to analyse financial data, interpret trends and provide actionable insights.
• Proven leadership abilities with experience in managing finance teams, fostering a collaborative work environment, and mentoring and developing people.
• Ability to contribute to and implement the project, and company's, financial strategy, aligning it with overall business goals.
• Able to travel to site in Ballarat at least once a quarter

The AusNet experience is all about...

• Solving some of the most complex energy challenges of our time: We love unpacking complex challenges in clever ways and looking at things differently.
• Building an energy future to be proud of: We're a trusted leader, with deep expertise, driven to do what's right for our communities and customers.
• Being part of a team that cares deeply about each other: We share in the good times and support in the tough times.

We're committed to building an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We believe different perspectives are essential to our success, and we encourage all applicants to apply. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, we're happy to discuss how we can support you.