Councils finance manager finalist in prestigious awards

Waipā District Council is proud to announce finance manager Sarah Davies is a finalist in the 2021 New Zealand CFO Awards.

Davies is a finalist in the Emerging Financial Manager category which recognises finance talent of professionals under the age of 40 years who have demonstrated outstanding finance leadership.

Davies said getting into the finals is a credit to her team and their drive to produce positive outcomes for Council and the community.

The awards are run annually to celebrate the gold standard in leadership, innovation and performance in finance and business across New Zealand.

Paula Cleghorn, general manager - events said, "Both Conferenz and the judges were very impressed with the exceptional quality of this year's entrants. All the finalists embody the leadership, innovation and hard work which are indicative of past winners."

Davies is also a finalist in the Emerging Leader category of the LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards, which will be held next week, and has received one of the 2021 Raymond Wilson and Perpetual Guardian Governance Scholarships.

Davies was put forward for the awards in recognition of the work she has delivered over the last 12 months, including a large number projects and improvement initiatives.

Garry Dyet chief executive said “A global pandemic has been challenging for most leaders, but Sarah’s leadership throughout has been exceptional; she has lead with integrity, purpose, adaptability, resilience and compassion.”

The nominations also recognised Davies contribution to the community, holding five current board positions with various organisations across the Waikato, in addition to her role as Secretary / Treasurer for Waipā Networks Trust.

“Being able to contribute to the community is incredibly important to me and something I take great pride in,” added Davies.

Davies will be interviewed by the CFO Awards judging panel in Auckland next month, with the awards being held in June.