Management Accountant

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Management Accountant to join our Finance Service Delivery team. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the financial sustainability, performance, and strategic capability of an organisation that plays a vital role in protecting and supporting our nation.

You’ll also have the opportunity to rotate across different Capability areas: Maritime, Land, Air, Enablers, and Information & Operations. These rotations form part of a structured development pathway on offer, giving you the chance to build deep and broad organisational knowledge while contributing to a resilient, future‑focused finance function.

In this position, you’ll play a key part by:

• Preparing accurate and timely financial reporting and analysis
• Supporting annual budgeting, forecasting, and month‑end processes
• Partnering with leaders to provide insights for operational and strategic decision‑making
• Monitoring expenditure and identifying risks, trends, and opportunities
• Contributing to continuous improvement of financial systems and processes

Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

As a Management Accountant, you will provide high-quality financial support, reporting and analysis to assist with the effective management of your assigned Capability area. You’ll play a key role in budgeting, forecasting, an ongoing financial performance monitoring, helping leaders make informed decisions based

You’ll be someone who enjoys problem‑solving, building strong relationships, and turning financial information into meaningful insights. You will bring:

• Experience in financial analysis, management accounting, or business partnering
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and the ability to explain financial concepts clearly
• Proficiency in Excel and financial systems

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 24 August 2026.

Use the links on this page where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.