Manager Finance in Dongara

The Shire of Irwin is located on the stunning Batavia Coast, where the historic twin towns of Dongara and Port Denison offer an enviable lifestyle, a welcoming community and a diverse local economy positioned for sustainable growth. Home to approximately 3,800 residents and spanning 2,223 km² of coastal and rural landscapes, this is an opportunity to join a progressive local government at an important time of organisational development and community investment.

A rewarding leadership opportunity is available for an experienced finance professional who can combine strong technical capability with practical, forward-looking strategic advice. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and participating as a key member of the executive leadership team, the Manager Finance will help shape the organisation’s direction. The role will assess proposals, model options, challenge assumptions and advise Council, the CEO and managers on long-term financial sustainability, service delivery, major projects and investment priorities.

We are seeking a confident and capable leader from a commercial, operational or local government background with:

• A demonstrated record of providing strategic financial advice to senior leaders and governing bodies;
• Strong experience in long-term financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and scenario modelling;
• The ability to translate complex financial information into clear options and practical recommendations;
• A collaborative approach to business partnering and strengthening organisation-wide financial accountability;
• Proven experience leading and developing a capable, service-oriented finance team;
• Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or a related discipline, with strong knowledge of Australian Accounting Standards and the ability to rapidly acquire and apply Western Australian local government financial requirements.

The position leads budgeting, long-term financial planning, statutory reporting, rates, treasury, taxation, financial systems and internal financial controls. Day-to-day payroll administration is managed outside the Finance Department, allowing the role to focus on strategic leadership, organisational support and continuous improvement. Eligibility for CPA Australia or CA ANZ membership will be highly regarded.

In return you will receive a three-to-five-year contract, a competitive base salary, negotiable depending on experience, plus company vehicle, additional superannuation and benefits. The successful candidate will have the option of living full time in Shire accommodation or adopting a hybrid working arrangement, providing the flexibility of working remotely for most of the time, with visiting the Shire regularly to stay connected with the team in person. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to progress their career and join the Shire at this pivotal time. Applications will close at 4pm AWST on Monday 2 November 2026. The Shire reserves the right to commence the recruitment process at any time. Canvassing Elected Members during the recruitment process will disqualify your application.