OnTalent is proud to represent the Queensland Audit Office (QAO), the independent auditor of Queensland's public sector and a critical part of the state's integrity system. QAO provides Parliament and the community with trusted assurance over how public funds are managed and whether government entities are operating effectively, transparently and in the public interest.
Through its financial audit program, QAO works with more than 600 state and local government entities, spanning central agencies, education bodies, infrastructure organisations and local government. This work requires the same technical rigour, judgement and stakeholder sophistication found in leading professional services firms, applied to deliver on the QAO's vision of better public services.
QAO's employer value proposition is exceptional - offering an employment experience that balances impact with flexibility, fostering a focused, collaborative and intellectually engaging culture. Employees work closely with senior government leaders, contribute to recommendations that shape future service delivery, and benefit from strong career development pathways. With structured onboarding, clear frameworks, extensive coaching and exceptional support, a career with QAO expands your professional network in ways few employers can match, offering a meaningful opportunity to influence outcomes that matter to Queensland communities.
About the Role
The Manager, Financial Audit will play a key role in delivering some of QAO's financial audit program by managing teams across low to medium risk audits, and supporting delivery on more complex, higher-risk engagements.
This is a hands-on management role for someone who enjoys guiding teams through structured audit work, leading with integrity and contributing to reports that are ultimately tabled in Parliament. You will manage day-to-day delivery of audits, ensuring work is completed to a high standard, on time and within budget.
Your portfolio may include statutory bodies, smaller government agencies or local councils, giving you exposure to a broad range of public sector operating environments. You will work closely with Senior Managers and Directors, gaining insight into more complex engagements and building capability for progression to Senior Manager over time.
Audit Managers play an important role in team leadership and capability development. You will supervise and coach team members, review work for quality and consistency, and actively manage performance to ensure audit outcomes meet QAO standards.
You will also contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, helping to refine audit processes, improve efficiency and strengthen the application of audit methodology. The role requires strong collaboration skills and the ability to build productive relationships across QAO and with external stakeholders.
Why This Role Is Great
This role offers the opportunity to step out of the intensity of firm life whilst at the same time engaging in purposeful audit work that matters to the integrity of Queenslanders. You will continue to work across multiple engagements, develop leadership capability and apply technical expertise, while benefiting from a more sustainable workload model and a culture that values development and quality.
Audit Managers at QAO gain exposure to a wide range of government entities and emerging risks, building a depth of public sector experience that enhances long-term career options. The role provides a strong platform for progression to Senior Manager, supported by clear expectations, structured coaching and access to experienced leaders.
With hybrid working, strong work–life balance and the opportunity to contribute to public accountability, this is a compelling pathway for experienced auditors looking for stability, growth and impact.
About You
You are an experienced audit professional from a Big 4 or mid-tier firm, or a comparable environment, currently operating at Manager or high-performing Assistant Manager level.
You bring:
* Experience managing audits across multiple engagements
* Strong working knowledge of Australian Auditing and Assurance Standards and IFRS
* Confidence leading and developing team members
* The ability to manage priorities, budgets and deadlines
* Clear written and verbal communication skills suitable for senior stakeholders and formal reporting
You enjoy working with structure and complexity, take pride in delivering high-quality work, and are motivated by the opportunity to build a career that combines professional challenge with long-term sustainability.
CA or CPA (or equivalent) qualification is required.
To find out more, click on the microsite link below or to arrange a confidential discussion please phone to speak with Chris Dougherty or Wayne Rademeyer.
Microsite:
QAO encourages flexible working and supports hybrid arrangements. Some travel may be required depending on portfolio.