We’re a well-established, evolving accounting practice with offices in the heart of the South Waikato (Putaruru, Tokoroa) and Bay of Plenty (Rotorua). At Graham Brown & Co we take pride in supporting our clients, our community and are passionate about what we do.

If you enjoy a fast-moving environment and take pride in getting the details right — especially in payroll — this could be the role for you.

You’ll support our clients and team across a wide range of administrative tasks in a role where deadlines matter. We’re looking for someone who is positive, approachable and upbeat, who can remain calm under pressure and contribute to a supportive, team-focused culture.

What you’ll be doing:

• Navigating payroll legislation with confidence and precision
• Engaging with clients to provide friendly, expert support
• Managing payroll processes from start to finish (and making it look easy!)
• Keeping records accurate, compliant, and audit-ready
• Processing of creditor and tax payments along with other administration tasks as required

What we’re looking for:

• A detail-loving, process-driven superstar
• Experience with payroll softwares and proficient with Microsoft products
• A people person who enjoys client interaction
• Someone who thrives in a fast-paced, organised environment
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance

Why join us?

Because here, payroll isn’t just numbers – it’s about people, partnerships, and making a real impact. Plus, we keep things supportive, collaborative, and fun!

This is a full time permanent position, ideally based in the Putaruru office however will consider a base at one of our other offices for the right applicant.

To apply please email your CV and covering letter to employment@grahambrown.co.nz or contact Christina on 07 8851022.

Applicants for this position are required to have NZ residency or a valid NZ work permit.

Each year we look for the next up and coming star/s to join our team. The right person/s will have the opportunity to complete their study towards an accounting degree while in full time employment with Graham Brown & Co.

A successful applicant is expected to complete 2-4 papers per year through Massey University’s Extramural programme or Open Polytechnic.

Graham Brown & Co pays for all course fees and books up front and half the cost of the course fees are then deducted from your fortnightly wages throughout the study semester. On successful completion of each paper, the deducted fees are refunded back to you. If a pass is not obtained in a course paper, it is your responsibility to pay for the resit in full and the deducted fees from your first attempt are held until successful completion of the paper.

Apprentices are expected to allow 10 hours a week study time per paper. To help with this, apprentices may request an unpaid day or two half days per week for study. A quiet room and resources are supplied at the office to assist with this.

Apprentices are also entitled to two days paid study leave per paper (one study day and one exam day). Unpaid study leave may also be requested.

Other study arrangements outside Massey University’s Extramural programme or Open Polytechnic can be negotiated.

Numbers – The alternative costs
We believe the cost of full time study in an unsupported environment is more than $60,000.

As an apprentice at Graham Brown & Co you save on these costs and have the ability to earn as you learn and gain invaluable practical knowledge and skills.

Who would this suit?
• You may be a recent school leaver or have completed schooling some time ago, and looking for a career change
• Keen to further yourself at the same time as earning a competitive income
• Someone with a keen eye for detail, and a clear aptitude for numbers
• Have an interest in accounting/numbers (though you do not need to have studied accounting at school)
• Entry qualifications for acceptance into either Massey University or Open Polytechnic would be an advantage but not necessary

Advantages
• The ability to gain qualifications without having a student loan
• Your course costs paid for you beyond just year one (provided you pass)
• The ability to earn as you learn in your relevant chosen field
• Gain a wide range of practical experience adding to your CV for the future
• Well placed to continue on with professional exams in a supportive training environment

Starting Salary
Apprentices start on minimum wage and this is reviewed after three months, six months and annually thereafter. Apprentices who excel in both their studies and the working environment have the potential to earn a very competitive salary within the first five years and be exposed to a wide range of practical training. This often places you ahead of your university graduate counterparts, who have little or no practical experience upon completion of their degree.

Contact Richard Rutgers if you would like more information on info@grahambrown.co.nz or phone 07 885 1022.