COX Architecture (COX) is a design-focused contemporary architectural practice with studios located in every major Australian city and Auckland, and a history spanning 60+ years working globally.
COX works within a collegiate framework allowing the best ideas to emerge meritocratically – we are ‘by the many, for the many.’ Our Practice of around 600 team members includes some 500 talented architects, urban planners, interior designers, graphic designers, researchers, and digital visualisation experts. We continuously seek the brightest minds to innovate around design, process, and typology.
At COX, we design with purpose to advance society through exemplary design, creating spaces that stand the test of time both in aesthetics and functionality. Our philosophy is to Create to Last, ensuring our projects not only endure but thrive. We champion the principle of Do More, with Less, leveraging innovative solutions that are not just sustainable but regenerative. Our strength lies in our ability to Embody Diversity, drawing on a multitude of perspectives to enrich our designs. We Lead with Empathy, deeply engaging with the needs of our communities and clients, creating architecture that resonates and inspires.
Our team at COX is built on a foundation of cultural connections that celebrate the diversity of our people, projects, and places. We believe that a rich cultural landscape is essential to creating meaningful and enduring designs. Through our work, we strive to foster a sense of community and belonging, acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land and honouring the cultural heritage of our clients and the communities we serve. By embracing and celebrating our differences, we create an inclusive and collaborative environment that inspires creativity, innovation, and exceptional outcomes.
Position Summary:
The Finance Manager will lead and provide strategic direction to the finance team, overseeing project administration, accounts receivable and payable, payroll, and general accounting while ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely financial operations. Acting as a strategic business partner, they will analyse financial data, identify trends, and deliver insights to support decision-making, as well as develop and manage budgeting and planning processes aligned with business goals. The role also involves building strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and stakeholders to ensure efficient financial processes and promptly resolve any issues. Additionally, the Finance Manager will mentor and develop the team, fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment focused on excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
We are currently searching for a Finance Manager for our Canberra Studio. This is a permanent position, we are open to full time and part-time applications.
Responsible for:
Project Administration
* Maintain accurate, up-to-date project financial records in ERP, including review and approval of project setup, cash flow, costing, and reporting.
* Prepare and analyse project budgets, forecasts, and financial reports, providing insights to the National Finance team and Directors.
* Coordinate with project leads to ensure timely invoicing, accurate revenue recognition, and effective cost and performance management.
* Ensure compliance and continuous improvement through regular financial reviews and the development of project financial management procedures.
Accounts Receivable
* Manage accounts receivable processes, including invoicing, payment tracking, and maintaining accurate records.
* Monitor and follow up outstanding invoices, investigating discrepancies and ensuring timely resolution.
* Prepare and analyse aged receivables and doubtful debt reports with clear commentary for stakeholders.
* Build and maintain client relationships to support timely payments and resolve disputes.
Accounts Payable
* Oversee and review supplier invoicing, payments, and reconciliations to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
* Negotiate with suppliers to secure favourable payment terms and cost efficiencies.
Payroll
* Prepare and submit fortnightly payroll summaries with appropriate approvals.
* Support employees and management with payroll queries and ensure timely, accurate timesheet completion.
General Accounting
* Manage month-end and year-end close processes, including reconciliations (accruals, prepayments, suspense) and financial data preparation.
* Prepare budgets, forecasts, and financial reports, delivering analysis and insights to support decision-making.
* Perform general accounting tasks, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial modelling.
Leadership and Team Management
* Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team, managing priorities, performance, and ongoing training.
* Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture that promotes engagement and accountability.
* Monitor team output and report performance to senior management, driving continuous improvement and recognising outcomes.
Qualifications & Skills
* Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field (CPA or CA highly desirable) with 6+ years’ experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.
* Strong technical expertise in financial and management accounting, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.
* Experience in project-based financial management, including maintaining project financial records, cost tracking, and revenue recognition.
* Proficiency in accounting systems/ERP platforms and advanced Microsoft Excel skills (e.g. formulas, lookups, pivot tables).
* Solid understanding of accounting standards, tax requirements, and compliance obligations, including payroll and superannuation.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present financial insights clearly to both finance and non-finance stakeholders.
* Proven leadership and team management capability, with experience mentoring team members and fostering a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
* Strong organisational, problem-solving, and analytical skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, adapt to change, and maintain accuracy and confidentiality.
If you are looking for a new role, in a dynamic creative team environment, then we would like to hear from you.
To apply please email your CV with a cover letter outlining why you would like to be considered for this role to - *******@cox.com.au