Overview:

Our client is seeking a flexible NZ Bookkeeper & Payroll Specialist (Xero) to support a project-based events production company, handling day-to-day bookkeeping and administrative tasks during regular periods and scaling up during major events to manage high-volume invoicing, payment processing, and detailed financial reporting. The ideal candidate is adaptable, detail-oriented, and able to shift between routine financial work and fast-paced event-driven demands while maintaining accuracy, composure under pressure, and strong organizational discipline.

Schedule: Monday - Friday, flexible hours between 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM NZST/NZDT (20 work hours per week)

Responsibilities:

• Process accounts payable and accounts receivable using Xero accounting software
• Manage payroll processing and ensure timely, accurate payment to staff and contractors
• Compile post-event financial reports and sub-profit and loss statements showing revenue and expenses by department or activity area
• Coordinate with exhibitors and event participants by sending surveys, collecting information, and following up on outstanding responses
• Maintain organized financial records and support month-end and year-end closing processes
• Handle administrative tasks including data collation, spreadsheet management, and general business correspondence
• Process high volumes of invoices and payments during event peak periods
• Reconcile bank accounts, monitor cash flow, and support temporary staff hour tracking

Must-Have Requirements:

• Must have 3 to 5 years of bookkeeping or accounting experience with the ability to adapt to NZ taxation requirements
• Proficiency with Xero accounting software (strictly required), along with experience in accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll processing
• Strong understanding of New Zealand bookkeeping, payroll, and taxation requirements, including GST (Goods and Services Tax), PAYE (Pay As You Earn), and general Inland Revenue (IRD) compliance
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage fluctuating workloads
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in financial record-keeping
• Experience with or quick adaptability to the Smartly payroll system is required (Not a strict requirement but highly desired)
• System Optimization Skills: Ability to maximize the functionality of Xero and other systems, going beyond basic operations to fully utilize available features and capabilities 

Nice to Have Requirements:

• Experience working in events, festivals, startups, technology companies, or other project-based industries
• Familiarity with Smartly software, administrative coordination, survey management, stakeholder follow-up, and related operational support activities
• Exposure to R&D tax incentive programs, government grant applications, or accounting and finance support within startup or technology-focused environments

Independent Contractor Perks:

• Permanent work from home
• Immediate hiring

Note:

Please click the "Apply" button to complete your application, including the assessment questions, technical check, and voice recording. Your hourly pay rate will be established based on your performance in the application process; submissions with all requirements fulfilled will receive priority review.

Important Disclaimer:

BruntWork never charges fees for applying or any part of the hiring process—it is 100% free. If you are ever asked for payment, please stop and report it immediately to our official email through the ‘Contact Us’ form on our official BruntWork website.