Job Details
| Position Title | Manager – Management Accounting |
|---|---|
| Organisation/Entity | NSW Police Force |
| Job Location | Sydney Region / Sydney – East |
| Work Type | Full-Time |
| Base Pay | $139,787 – $161,663 |
| Total Remuneration Package | $181,612 (includes salary, superannuation, and annual leave loading) |
| Closing Date | 01/12/2024 – 11:59 PM |
Manager of Management Accounting with NSWPF
The Manager – Management Accounting position is a pivotal role within the Financial Strategy, Finance, and Business Services Command of the NSW Police Force. This role is responsible for providing high-quality analysis and evaluation of financial and operational performance to inform management decisions. The Manager will underpin effective budget formulation, forecasting, and projections, ensuring the financial health and strategic alignment of the NSW Police Force’s initiatives.
Challenges for the role
Taking on the role of Manager – Management Accounting comes with its unique set of challenges. Managing complex financial data within a large and diverse organisation like the NSW Police Force requires meticulous attention to detail and advanced analytical skills. Ensuring accurate budget projections and maintaining effective stakeholder relationships are critical, as is the ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of law enforcement operations. Balancing strategic financial management with operational demands in a high-pressure environment is essential for success in this role.
Reasons to Apply for Manager – Management Accounting
Joining the NSW Police Force as a Manager – Management Accounting offers numerous benefits and opportunities for professional growth. The competitive salary package reflects the importance of the role, while flexible work options help balance life at work and home.
Career growth opportunities within one of the largest police forces in the western world provide a clear pathway for advancement. Additionally, unique benefits such as in-house gym facilities, corporate wellbeing programs, and convenient locations for public transport and shopping enhance the overall employee experience.
Application Requirements for Manager in NSW Police
Application Process
To apply for the Manager – Management Accounting position, candidates must submit their applications electronically via the I Work for NSW website.
The application must include a cover letter (maximum of 2 pages) and an up-to-date resume that clearly details relevant skills and experience.
It is essential to address each of the target questions provided in the job ad within the specified word limit of 300 words per question.
Applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, including Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or New Zealand citizenship.
Additionally, a successful candidate will undergo a rigorous National Police (criminal history) Check and obtain the necessary Security Clearance as determined by the NSW Police Force.
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Target Questions
Target Question 1:
Outline your skills and experience in the strategic financial management of capital and recurrent budgets, including budget formulation and modelling, forecasting, analysis and executive reporting (including examples) in a large complex organisation.
Target Question 2:
The successful applicant must have highly developed interpersonal, negotiation, influencing and communication skills, including the ability to build and maintain stakeholder relationships and promote business partnering. Outline your experience, giving an example of a major project or issue that you have led, that demonstrates your skills in this area.
Essential Role Requirements
To be considered for this position, your cover letter and application must address all of the following criteria:
- Obtain and maintain the requisite security clearances for this position.
- Experience in management accounting and financial analysis, reporting, and budgeting.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in finance, business, accounting, and relevant industry experience.
- Membership with a professional body, e.g., Institute of Chartered Accountants, Certified Practising Accountants, Institute of Public Accountants, or equivalent.
These requirements are directly from the role description and must be clearly addressed in your application.
Application Checklist
| Checklist Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Cover Letter | 2 pages maximum, addressing target questions. |
| Resume | Up-to-date, detailing relevant skills and experience. |
| Target Questions | Responses within 300 words each. |
| Eligibility | Australian Citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen. |
| Security Clearance | Obtain and maintain the requisite security clearances for this position, including undergoing a National Police Check. |
| Experience | Demonstrated experience in management accounting, financial analysis, reporting, and budgeting. |
| Qualifications | Relevant tertiary qualifications in finance, business, accounting, or a related industry. |
| Professional Membership | Membership with a professional body, e.g., Institute of Chartered Accountants, Certified Practising Accountants, Institute of Public Accountants, or equivalent. |
Understanding and Addressing Focus Capabilities
Applicants are encouraged to review the role description and the focus capabilities outlined on the I Work for NSW link.
Understanding the NSW Capability Framework is crucial, as it forms the foundation for tailoring your cover letter and application responses. Aligning your application with these focus capabilities demonstrates your readiness to meet the role’s challenges and showcases your fit within the NSW Police Force. Customising your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the focus capabilities will significantly strengthen your application.
For more information on the NSW Capability Framework, visit the NSW Capability Framework page. Emphasising your ability to meet these capabilities through specific examples and experiences will enhance your application and increase your chances of success.
Focus capabilities for Manager – Management Accounting
| Capability | Level | Behavioural Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Act with Integrity | Adept | Represent the organisation in an honest, ethical and professional way and encourage others to do so; Act professionally and support a culture of integrity; Identify and explain ethical issues and set an example for others to follow; Ensure that others are aware of and understand the legislation and policy framework within which they operate; Act to prevent and report misconduct and illegal and inappropriate behaviour |
| Manage Self | Adept | Keep up to date with relevant contemporary knowledge and practices; Look for and take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills and develop strengths; Show commitment to achieving challenging goals; Examine and reflect on own performance; Seek and respond positively to constructive feedback and guidance; Demonstrate and maintain a high level of personal motivation |
| Communicate Effectively | Advanced | Present with credibility, engage diverse audiences, and test levels of understanding; Translate technical and complex information clearly and concisely for diverse audiences; Create opportunities for others to contribute to discussion and debate; Contribute to and promote information sharing across the organisation; Manage complex communications that involve understanding and responding to multiple and divergent viewpoints; Explore creative ways to engage diverse audiences |
| Influence and Negotiate | Advanced | Influence others with a fair and considered approach and present persuasive counter-arguments; Work towards mutually beneficial ‘win-win’ outcomes; Show sensitivity and understanding in resolving acute and complex conflicts and differences; Identify key stakeholders and gain their support in advance; Establish a clear negotiation position based on research, a firm grasp of key issues, likely arguments, points of difference, and areas for compromise; Anticipate and minimise conflict within the organisation and with external stakeholders |
| Deliver Results | Advanced | Seek and apply the expertise of key individuals to achieve organisational outcomes; Drive a culture of achievement and acknowledge input from others; Determine how outcomes will be measured and guide others on evaluation methods; Investigate and create opportunities to enhance the achievement of organisational objectives; Make sure others understand that on-time and on-budget results are required and how overall success is defined; Control business unit output to ensure government outcomes are achieved within budgets; Progress organisational priorities and ensure that resources are acquired and used effectively |
| Plan and Prioritise | Advanced | Understand the links between the business unit, organisation and the whole-of-government agenda; Ensure business plan goals are clear and appropriate and include contingency provisions; Monitor the progress of initiatives and make necessary adjustments; Anticipate and assess the impact of changes, including government policy and economic conditions, on business plans and initiatives and respond appropriately; Consider the implications of a wide range of complex issues and shift business priorities when necessary; Undertake planning to help the organisation transition through change initiatives, and evaluate progress and outcomes to inform future planning |
| Finance | Advanced | Apply a thorough understanding of recurrent and capital financial terminology, policies and processes to planning, forecasting and budget preparation and management; Identify and analyse trends, review data and evaluate business options to ensure business cases are financially sound; Assess relative cost benefits of various purchasing options; Promote the role of sound financial management and its impact on organisational effectiveness; Obtain specialist financial advice when reviewing and evaluating finance systems and processes; Respond to financial and risk management audit outcomes, addressing areas of non-compliance in a timely manner |
Candidate Profile
Meet Alex Taylor, a seasoned financial professional with over eight years of experience in strategic financial management within the public sector.
Alex has a strong background in managing large-scale budgets, financial forecasting, and operational performance analysis. Having worked in various capacities within government departments, Alex possesses the expertise required to excel as a Manager – Management Accounting at the NSW Police Force.
Alex is passionate about contributing to public safety and is eager to leverage their skills to support the financial strategies that underpin effective law enforcement operations.
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Example Cover Letter
Alex Taylor
123 Main Street
Sydney, NSW 2000
[email protected]
(02) 1234 5678
Stuart Bartlett
NSW Police Force
14 November 2024
Dear Mr. Bartlett,
I am writing to express my interest in the Manager – Management Accounting position at the NSW Police Force, as advertised on the I Work for NSW website.
With over eight years of experience in strategic financial management within the public sector, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your Financial Strategy, Finance, and Business Services Command.
In my previous role as Senior Financial Analyst at the Department of Health, I assisted in tracking both capital and recurrent budgets in a high-pressure, complex environment. One of my most significant achievements was leading the formulation and modelling of a $50 million capital budget for a new healthcare initiative aimed at improving regional access to health services. This involved creating a detailed budget framework and conducting in-depth financial analysis and scenario modelling to anticipate potential risks and outcomes.
I used trend analysis and advanced forecasting tools to predict cost variations and align them with the organisation’s long-term goals. These insights were then translated into comprehensive executive reports, which played a pivotal role in enabling senior management to make data-driven decisions. Ultimately, my efforts ensured the project was completed on time and within budget, meeting all performance metrics.
In another key responsibility, I spearheaded a cross-departmental business partnering initiative to strengthen collaboration and alignment between finance and operational teams. This initiative addressed inefficiencies in budget forecasting and financial reporting. I worked closely with stakeholders from multiple departments, using my interpersonal and negotiation skills to align competing priorities with the organisation’s overarching financial strategies. A standout example of my contribution was leading a major restructuring of financial reporting processes. By introducing streamlined reporting templates and providing tailored training to staff, we improved financial reporting accuracy by 20% and reduced the time taken for budget forecasting by 30%.
These experiences underscore my ability to manage and analyse complex financial data, communicate insights effectively, and implement solutions that drive measurable improvements in financial outcomes. My skill set in strategic budgeting and stakeholder engagement aligns closely with the requirements of the Manager – Management Accounting role. I am particularly motivated by the NSW Police Force’s dedication to serving the community, as well as its strong focus on diversity and inclusion—values I strive to reflect in my professional approach.
Answer to Target Questions Using STAR Method
Target Question 1:
Outline your skills and experience in the strategic financial management of capital and recurrent budgets, including budget formulation and modelling, forecasting, analysis, and executive reporting (including examples) in a large complex organisation.
As a Senior Financial Analyst at the Department of Health, I was tasked with managing the strategic financial oversight of both capital and recurrent budgets for a healthcare initiative to enhance service accessibility in underserved regions.
My role involved developing a $50 million capital budget, conducting robust financial modelling, and ensuring timely and accurate reporting to support executive decision-making.
To achieve this, I used scenario-based financial forecasting and implemented tools like Excel VBA macros to streamline data analysis. I collaborated with cross-functional teams to gather inputs and developed a dynamic budgeting model that could adjust to various funding scenarios. Furthermore, I prepared detailed executive-level reports with key financial insights and actionable recommendations. These reports were presented to senior management and external funding bodies, demonstrating transparency and accountability.
The project was delivered on time and within budget, achieving its financial and operational objectives. The budget modelling I implemented also became a template for future projects, improving efficiency in the budgeting process across the department.
Target Question 2:
The successful applicant must have highly developed interpersonal, negotiation, influencing, and communication skills, including the ability to build and maintain stakeholder relationships and promote business partnering. Outline your experience, giving an example of a major project or issue that you have led, that demonstrates your skills in this area.
The Department of Health identified a significant disconnect between operational teams and finance during budget preparation, resulting in delays and inaccuracies.
As the lead for a business partnering initiative, my goal was to bridge this gap by fostering collaboration between finance and operational stakeholders while improving budget forecasting and financial reporting.
I initiated regular cross-departmental workshops to align financial and operational priorities, emphasising the value of clear communication and mutual understanding. I introduced a new budgeting framework tailored to each department’s needs and provided training sessions to empower staff to use the tools effectively. Leveraging my negotiation skills, I worked with stakeholders to prioritise competing objectives, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s strategic goals.
The initiative led to a 20% improvement in reporting accuracy and a 30% reduction in forecasting time. More importantly, it fostered a culture of collaboration, with stakeholders consistently engaged in the financial planning process, resulting in more informed and efficient decision-making.
I am eager to bring my expertise in financial analysis and strategic management to your team and contribute to the continued success of the NSW Police Force. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your department.
Sincerely,
Alex Taylor
Explain the STAR Technique
The STAR technique is an effective method for structuring responses to competency-based questions in both applications and interviews. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This approach allows applicants to provide clear and concise examples of their skills and experiences.
- Situation: Describe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge.
- Task: Explain the actual task or responsibility you had in that situation.
- Action: Detail the specific actions you took to address the task or challenge.
- Result: Share the outcomes or results of your actions, highlighting what you accomplished.
Using the STAR technique in your cover letter and during interviews helps demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and how you apply your skills in real-world scenarios. For instance, in the example cover letter above, Alex Taylor effectively uses the STAR method to illustrate their experience in budget formulation and stakeholder engagement, showcasing their suitability for the Manager – Management Accounting role.
Mastering the STAR technique is essential for success in public sector applications and interviews, as it provides a structured way to present your qualifications and achievements compellingly.
Want help with your cover letter?
Get your cover letter reviewed by a NSW Government Recruitment Expert.
Interview Preparation and Conclusion
Preparing for the Interview
The NSW Public Service Commission offers valuable resources to help candidates prepare for interviews, including the Capability Application Tool. Here are three example questions you might encounter for the Manager – Management Accounting role:
- Can you provide an example of a time when you had to manage a complex budget? How did you ensure accuracy and compliance?
- Describe a situation where you had to influence stakeholders to adopt a new financial strategy. What was your approach and the outcome?
- How do you prioritize tasks when dealing with multiple financial projects simultaneously?
When preparing for the interview, anticipate questions that assess your technical skills, strategic thinking, and ability to collaborate with diverse teams. Practice articulating your experiences using the STAR technique to provide structured and impactful responses. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the NSW Capability Framework to align your answers with the desired competencies.
Final Thoughts
Securing the Manager – Management Accounting position at the NSW Police Force is a significant achievement that offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a renowned organisation. By showcasing your strategic financial management skills, demonstrating your ability to handle complex challenges, and aligning your application with the NSW Capability Framework, you position yourself as a strong candidate for this role.
Embrace the opportunity to contribute to the financial strategies that support the NSW Police Force’s mission to maintain law and order across a diverse and dynamic community. Your expertise can drive effective decision-making and ensure the financial sustainability of critical operations.
