Head of External Reporting

• Full Time Opportunity
• Sydney Based Role
• Assume a pivotal role within a first class finance function

About the role:

Woolworths Group Finance is seeking an experienced Head of External Reporting to join our Group Finance Team. This role guides the external reporting team, accountable for the timely and accurate delivery of all external financial reporting to the ASX and reporting to the Audit and Finance Committee (AFC) and the Board (as required). This includes coverage of recent Climate reporting requirements, ensuring adherence to accounting standards and disclosure rules.

The position also manages the external audit relationship, offers internal accounting advisory across Woolworths Group (supporting projects like acquisitions, divestments, financing, capital management), and aids the ongoing enhancement of internal controls and finance systems.

What you’ll do

You will oversee a high-performing team (Sydney/Adelaide) responsible for preparing the Group’s interim/Annual Reports, Appendix 4D/4E, ASIC filings, statutory climate reporting, analyst presentations, and press releases. You’ll be the primary executive managing the external audit relationship and providing internal accounting advice Group-wide, involving exposure to various ad-hoc projects.

• Offer technical advice to business units and uphold Group accounting policies for ongoing compliance with Australian Accounting Standards.
• Perform impact assessments and implement new/revised accounting standards (including Climate reporting), educating business finance teams.
• Own the external audit relationship regarding technical matters and completion of statutory audits.
• Prepare technical accounting papers supporting key Group accounting positions/judgements for financial results and ad-hoc projects (e.g., M&A).
• Identify and execute process improvements across Corporate Finance, collaborating with business units and involving Finance Transformation/Systems enhancements.
• Accountable for designing and delivering Woolworths Group Accounting Policies.
• Develop strong relationships with the Group CFO, Group Financial Controller, GM of Investor Relations, and other Finance Team members.

What you’ll bring

We seek strong talent with high-level understanding and direct experience in a similar role within a large organization. You’ll drive best practices while supporting a high-performing team’s growth and delivery within a top-tier finance function. Strong alignment with our Values and Purpose (‘We create better experiences together for a better tomorrow. We care for one another and do the right thing. Wellbeing, safety, and continuous development are key’) is essential.

• Minimum 10 years PQE and preferably recent experience as Head of External Reporting (or similar) in an ASX listed company.
• Deep experience (or similar) with an ASX listed company.
• Director or Senior Management experience in a Big 4 accounting firm.
• Robust familiarity with Australian Accounting Standards and ability to interpret accounting/reporting risks.
• Ability to identify/manage business, finance, and reporting risks and develop mitigation controls.
• Experience designing/developing best practice Enterprise Business Reporting (EBR) technology.

What you’ll experience

• A global business offering endless career possibilities across disciplines, with valuable exposure to a broad business network.
• Access to Sonder: free, confidential 24/7 personalised support (financial, medical, safety, psychological, physical) for team members and families.
• A progressive, competitive leave policy providing more space for personal priorities.
• Team discounts across Woolworths Group brands and a robust rewards program recognizing purpose-driven work.
• Salary Sacrifice opportunities for eligible items/services (novated leases, superannuation, Qantas Club, devices, etc.).

Endless possibilities with Woolworths Group

We’re part of Woolworths Group – 200,000+ individuals connected by our Purpose: ‘to create better experiences together for a better tomorrow.’ You’ll be supported to explore ideas, make commitments, and innovate to meet customer needs. Backed by genuine care, flexible work, and career growth support, the possibilities are endless.

Everyone belongs at Woolworths Group

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are vital to our purpose. We value the diversity our team brings, enriching our group and enhancing innovation. As a major employer, we aim for an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs, can be themselves, and reach their potential.

We encourage all candidates to apply; inform us in your application if adjustments are needed in the hiring process.

See how we’re creating better experiences together, for a better tomorrow

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Tagged as: +10 years