Group Manager Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions

Upper Hutt City Council; Upper Hutt; On-site; NZD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Upper Hutt City Council in Upper Hutt, North Island, invites applications for a senior Group Manager Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions. This permanent, full-time appointment sits on the Executive Leadership Team, shaping financial strategy, risk governance and digital enablement across the organisation.

The role demands strategic vision, strong stakeholder engagement and an ability to lead cross‑functional teams in a changing local government environment.

Qualifications

• Strategic financial governance experience in complex organisations.
• Proven ability to lead risk and insurance programs.
• Experience guiding digital solutions and data systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop organisation-wide finance strategies and policies.
• Lead risk management and external reporting processes.
• Oversee digital solutions, data systems and legal matters.
• Advise Council and officers to enable informed decisions.
• Lead Executive Leadership Team to deliver outcomes.

Skills

Financial leadership

Risk management

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Team leadership

Job description

Group Manager Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions

Upper Hutt City Council – Upper Hutt, North Island

Permanent | Full time

It’s a time of unprecedented change in the local government sector. At Upper Hutt City Council we are in the throes of developing our Long Term Plan 2027-2037 which will set out an affordable future, this is being undertaken in the context of a rates capping environment and local government sector structural change. This role is key to the success of the Long Term Plan and is a fantastic opportunity for an adaptable, yet steadfast Group Manager to join our Executive Leadership Team.

Our vision and outcomes encapsulate what we are striving towards and what Council’s priorities are for the city. Our vision: ‘We have an outstanding natural environment, leisure and recreational opportunities, and we are a great place for families to live, work and play’’. We have four strategic priority areas: Economy, Social and Cultural, Infrastructure and Environment.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Group Manager Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions is a strategic leadership role providing financial and risk management advice to Councillors and officers to enable effective decision making and contributes to the achievement of the Council’s strategic and operational objectives. You will be responsible for developing organisation wide strategies and policies related to our finances, risk management, rates, insurance, digital solutions and legal matters.

We require a strategic and influential leader who can demonstrate a prowess for reporting in a complex setting with a significant asset base. Key to your success will be your financial acumen and ability to quickly grasp business drivers and provide financial analysis and modelling to support new initiatives. A superb communicator, you will be skilled in engaging with diverse stakeholder groups and demonstrate significant experience leading teams committed to operational excellence.

This is a unique opportunity to join Upper Hutt City Council and contribute to delivering great outcomes for the community. Upper Hutt City Council is the steward and custodian of Upper Hutt City, providing governance, infrastructure, and community services and resources, and promoting opportunity in the city for business, recreation, lifestyle, and leisure.

With 50% of the Wellington regions green space, the river Te Awa Kairangi flowing down the valley, boutique shopping, award winning Brewtown and quirky cafes all within walking distance, train station close by and free parking, Upper Hutt is a great choice for your next career move.

Applications close 5pm, 24 September 2026.

We reserve the right to interview and select candidates prior to the closing date.

PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU MUST HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS ROLE.