About the role
We are seeking an experienced Senior External Audit Contractor to join our audit team on a full-time remote basis for an initial 3-month contract, with the potential for a longer-term engagement based on business needs and performance.
The successful candidate will independently manage assigned audit sections or smaller audit engagements while working closely with engagement managers and directors to deliver high-quality audit outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
The contractor will be responsible for completing audit engagements across the full audit lifecycle, including:
Audit Planning & Risk Assessment
Participate in audit planning activities.
Perform risk assessments and identify key audit risks.
Prepare audit planning documentation and audit strategies.
Audit Fieldwork
Evaluate and test internal controls.
Perform substantive audit procedures.
Conduct analytical review procedures.
Identify, investigate, and resolve audit issues.
Audit Documentation
Prepare accurate and complete audit workpapers.
Ensure audit files comply with International Standards on Auditing (ISA).
Maintain high-quality documentation throughout the engagement.
Financial Reporting
Prepare and review financial statements.
Ensure compliance with IFRS and applicable reporting standards.
Assist with financial statement disclosures where required.
Audit Completion
Prepare completion memoranda.
Draft management letters.
Assist with audit reporting.
Finalise audit files and ensure completion documentation is accurate.
Client & Team Communication
Communicate professionally with clients.
Escalate audit issues to engagement managers/directors.
Work independently while meeting agreed deadlines in a remote environment.
Required Qualifications
Candidates should possess:
Approximately 3+ years of recent external audit experience
CPA, Chartered Accountant (CA), or equivalent professional qualification
Strong understanding of:
International Standards on Auditing (ISA)
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
Excellent written and verbal English communication skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Preferred Experience
Preference will be given to candidates with experience auditing:
New Zealand entities
Australian entities
UK entities
Other comparable international audit environments
Experience auditing any of the following is highly desirable:
Commercial businesses
Not-for-profit organisations
Trusts
Incorporated societies
Other New Zealand entities
Preferred Software Experience
Candidates with experience using the following software will be highly regarded:
Xero
CaseWare
Audit Assistant (or similar cloud-based audit software)
Microsoft Excel (advanced functions)
Data analysis tools
PwC Aura or other Big Four audit platforms
Required Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
High attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple audit engagements
Excellent organisation and time management
Ability to work remotely with minimal supervision
Strong documentation and reporting skills
Professional client communication
Commitment to meeting deadlines
Experience applying ISA and IFRS
Software proficiency (Xero, CaseWare, Audit Assistant, PwC Aura, Excel, etc.)
New Zealand/ Australia audit experience
Able to start ASAP