Head of Finance, People & Technology 

University of Canterbury Students' Association (UCSA) 
Christchurch | Full Time | Permanent 

Shape the future of one of New Zealand's most unique and dynamic not-for-profit organisations. 

Introduction 

Are you an experienced senior leader who can bring together finance, people, technology, facilities, and organisational performance? Do you thrive on improving systems, building high-performing teams, and providing strategic advice that helps an organisation achieve its goals? 
 
The University of Canterbury Students' Association (UCSA) is looking for an exceptional Head of Finance, People & Technology to join our Senior Leadership Team and help lead the next chapter of our organisation's success. This is a rare opportunity to influence strategy across multiple business functions while contributing to a purpose-driven organisation focused on student success and belonging. 

About UCSA 

Established in 1894, UCSA is a registered charitable not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping students succeed and belong. Governed by an elected Student Executive and supported by more than 300 staff, we provide a wide range of services including advocacy, welfare support, dental and optometry services, early learning centres, clubs support, events, media, hospitality venues, and other commercial activities that help fund our mission. 
 
Our vision: We are here for students. 
Our mission: Helping students succeed and belong. 

The Opportunity 

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this is a critical senior leadership role responsible for enabling organisational performance, sustainability, and transformation across UCSA. You will provide strategic and operational leadership across Finance and Commercial Decision Support, People & Culture, Technology and Digital Systems, Facilities and Asset Management, Health, Safety and Wellbeing, and Organisational Compliance and Continuous Improvement. 

Leading the team, you'll be supported by a finance administrator (FT), Accounts payable/Payroll administrator (FT), HR Manager (PT), IT Coordinator (FT), and a Facilities and Compliance Cordinator (PT) and have knowledge and experience to support and develop this team. 

What You’ll Do 

Finance Leadership 

• Lead the end-to-end finance function and provide trusted financial advice to the Chief Executive and senior leaders. 

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, statutory reporting, audit, taxation, and financial compliance. 

• Drive financial insights that support strategic and commercial decision making. 

• Ensure robust financial controls, systems, and risk management frameworks are in place. 

People & Culture 

• Lead and support UCSA’s people strategy, culture, capability development, and organisational change initiatives. 

• Partner with leaders across the organisation to build high-performing teams and positive workplace experiences. 

• Oversee recruitment, workforce planning, learning and development, engagement initiatives, and employment practices. 

Technology 

• Lead the development and execution of UCSA’s technology strategy. 

• Drive digital transformation, process improvements, systems integration, automation, and data governance. 

• Ensure technology investments deliver value, scalability, security, and improved service delivery. 

Facilities, Compliance & H&S 

• Provide strategic oversight of facilities, physical assets, regulatory compliance and health & safety. 

• Champion a proactive safety culture and future-focused systems. 

About You 

• Significant senior leadership experience in finance, shared services, or corporate services functions. 

• Strong financial management, budgeting, reporting, and analytical capability. 

• Proven background in People & Culture leadership at a senior level. 

• Experience overseeing technology systems and digital transformation initiatives. 

• Strong understanding of governance, risk, compliance, and organisational performance. 

• Excellent relationship management, communication, and influencing skills. 

• A tertiary qualification and professional qualification in Accounting, Business Management, or a related discipline. 

Why Join UCSA? 

• Make a genuine difference to the lives of thousands of students. 

• Join a values-driven organisation with a strong sense of purpose. 

• Lead diverse portfolios that provide strategic challenge and professional variety. 

• Be part of a supportive and collaborative Senior Leadership Team. 

• Influence significant organisational projects and future initiatives. 

Apply Now 

Applications should include a cover letter and CV outlining your suitability for the role. Applications will be considered and reviewed as they are received.