Strategic Finance Partner — Higher Education

University of Canterbury; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5 weeks annual leave

Superannuation up to 6.75%

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

On-campus staff discounts

Campus facilities access

Job summary

University of Canterbury is seeking a Finance Business Partner within the Financial Planning & Analysis team in Ōtautahi (Christchurch). The role will advise senior leaders on strategic financial planning, reporting, forecasting and cost optimisation across a large portfolio of projects.

You will bring advanced Excel skills and strong financial analysis capabilities, with experience in budgeting, forecasting and reporting, plus the ability to influence decisions with data-driven insights.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance/accounting with 5+ years in financial analysis and reporting.
• Proficient in Excel; Power BI dashboards/reports preferred but not required.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting and financial modelling.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert financial advice, analysis, and insights to Senior Leaders, supporting informed decision-making and alignment with strategic objectives.
• Support and guide budget managers in preparing, monitoring, and understanding budgets, ensuring financial performance aligns with university targets.
• Identify and assess financial and operational risks, providing recommendations and ensuring mitigation strategies are in place.
• Provide financial analysis, reporting, and advice for major investment projects, ensuring sound financial controls and risk management.
• Coach and support budget managers and leaders in financial planning, enhancing financial literacy and decision-making across the portfolio.
• Lead process improvements, contribute to policy development, and support financial service transformation to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Financial analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Budgeting & forecasting

Education

Bachelor's in Finance/Accounting

Tools

Power BI

Job description

University of Canterbury is seeking a Finance Business Partner within the Financial Planning & Analysis team in Ōtautahi (Christchurch). The role will advise senior leaders on strategic financial planning, reporting, forecasting and cost optimisation across a large portfolio of projects.

You will bring advanced Excel skills and strong financial analysis capabilities, with experience in budgeting, forecasting and reporting, plus the ability to influence decisions with data-driven insights.