About the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)
The APVMA is Australia's national regulator of agricultural and veterinary chemicals. Its work protects the health and safety of people, animals and the environment, and supports primary industries, biosecurity and international trade.
A Board-governed Commonwealth entity in the Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry portfolio, the APVMA has its head office in Armidale NSW, and ~100 staff in Canberra ACT.
The Opportunity
Take ownership of the full CFO remit, with the opportunity to shape the financial future of a national regulator. With a new cost recovery framework in place and a finance modernisation program ahead, there's real scope to influence how the APVMA operates for years to come.
For a Deputy CFO or Finance Director in a larger agency, this is a step up in scope rather than classification. You'll work directly with the CEO and Board, supported by a CPA-qualified Chief Operating Officer who is actively backing the finance modernisation program. You'll also benefit from a thorough handover ahead of the current CFO's retirement in 2027.
Shape long-term financial sustainability, developing the strategy for an agency that recovers almost 100% of its costs from industry
Lead finance modernisation, replacing manual processes with automation and making better use of data
Gain direct Board exposure, preparing and presenting financial advice - valuable experience for those with SES ambitions
Influence major investment decisions, contributing to a significant IT investment proposal involving Finance, DAFF and the DTA
Lead an experienced team, giving you the capacity to focus on strategy, leadership and change
Work for a bigger purpose, supporting a national regulator that protects people, animals and the environment
The Role
Reporting to the COO, you'll lead the APVMA's Finance and Procurement section, managing a team of eight across Armidale and Canberra.
Working closely with the executive leadership team, your responsibilities will include:
Develop and deliver the agency's financial strategy, including long-term sustainability, funding arrangements and resource planning
Provide strategic financial advice to the CEO, Board and senior executives, supporting key financial and investment decisions
Oversee financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting and cost recovery arrangements, including CRIS implementation and pricing reviews
Lead financial and procurement governance, ensuring sound risk management and compliance with Commonwealth frameworks and legislation
Modernise finance systems and processes, including TechnologyOne, with a focus on automation, data and stronger financial controls
Build financial capability across the agency, helping leaders make informed financial and investment decisions
Lead and develop your team, while building strong relationships with central agencies, auditors and other key stakeholders
The Ideal Person
You might already be a CFO in a smaller agency, or a Deputy CFO or Finance Director in a larger one, looking for the opportunity to take on more responsibility and drive real change.
You’ll bring:
Strong Commonwealth finance experience, with a solid understanding of government financial management, governance and reporting requirements
Experience with cost recovery arrangements, ideally including CRIS development and implementation
The ability to think strategically about financial sustainability, investment and long-term planning
Confidence advising CEOs and Boards, with strong judgement and the ability to communicate complex financial matters clearly
Experience leading capable teams, improving processes and driving change
You’ll also need to be an Australian citizen and able to obtain and maintain a Baseline security clearance.
Relevant tertiary qualifications in accounting, finance or a related field
CA, CPA or equivalent professional qualification
$154,097 to $178,313 + 15.4% superannuation
Based in Armidale NSW or Canberra ACT
Flexible working arrangements by agreement are welcomed
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