Company Accountant

R & D Education is a locally owned and operated Early Childhood Education provider operating under the Stables Montessori Preschools brand. We are a growing organisation with six centres across Christchurch and North Canterbury, with a further centre planned to open in 2027.

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Company Accountant to join our leadership team. Based at our Casebrook office, opposite Tullet Park, this part-time role offers an opportunity to oversee the finance function of a growing organisation and support the Directors in achieving operational, strategic and financial objectives.

This position is 20 hours per week, and we can offer flexibility in how those hours are worked to suit both the needs of the business and the successful applicant.

About the role

Reporting to the Directors, the Company Accountant will oversee the finance function of R & D Education and support finance needs of affiliated business interests. This is a hands-on position responsible for financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, compliance and financial controls and will also oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll functions including line management.

The successful candidate will ensure the organisation maintains strong financial governance, accurate reporting and effective financial systems, while providing practical advice and insights to support business decision-making and organisational growth.

The role is well suited to an experienced accountant who enjoys taking ownership, working autonomously, and contributing to organisational success as a valued member of the leadership team.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare management accounts, budgets, forecasts, cashflow reporting and financial analysis.
• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes, providing insights and recommendations to support business performance.
• Manage month-end and year-end accounting processes, including annual financial statements and audit coordination.
• Ensure compliance with taxation, payroll, statutory and financial reporting obligations.
• Maintain strong financial controls, accounting policies and finance procedures.
• Monitor cashflow, banking and financial performance to support organisational sustainability.
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll functions including line management of one directly report.
• Maintain and improve finance systems, processes and reporting frameworks to drive efficiency and accuracy.
• Contribute to strategic planning and organisational decision-making as a member of the leadership team.

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or Business, or equivalent practical experience.a
• Professional accounting qualification desired (CA ANZ, CPA or equivalent), or relevant experience in a senior accounting role.
• Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management and statutory compliance.
• Previous experience leading or supporting finance staff, with the ability to build strong working relationships across the organisation.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting systems, together with the ability to identify and implement process improvements.
• A proactive, self-motivated and highly organised professional with sound judgement, exceptional integrity, strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as a valued member of the leadership team.

How to Apply

If this sounds like the opportunity you have been looking for, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand and be willing to undergo all required safety vetting, including a Police Check.