April 28, 2025
In a world that’s constantly changing, one thing remains true: the strength of your network can shape the strength of your success — personally and professionally.
Whether you're navigating a career transition, leading through complexity, or simply looking for fresh ideas and inspiration — having a network of trusted peers, mentors, and collaborators makes a huge difference.
Networks offer perspective. Sometimes the best solutions come from someone outside your organisation, industry, or even comfort zone.
They provide support. Especially for senior leaders, it can get lonely at the top. A solid network reminds you that you're not alone.
They spark ideas. Conversations over coffee (or kai!) can lead to new ways of thinking, new connections, and even new opportunities.
And most of all — they build community. In business and in life, we thrive when we’re connected.
There are countless benefits to being part of a strong business network — and I’m incredibly proud of the three unique and thriving groups we host here at Cultivate, for our clients and candidates. I’ve seen the power of great networks firsthand —the relationships, advice, and genuine friendships that come from them are priceless.
Outside of connecting companies with top accounting & finance professionals, this is hands down my favourite part of the job.
Our Senior Payroll Leaders Roundtable has been running for 6 years — a bi-annual catch-up with some of the most experienced payroll leaders from many of Aotearoa’s largest organisations. It’s a space for open, honest conversations (and a few laughs over kai and drinks). Often sharing knowledge around navigating the holidays act with thousands of staff, systems, legislation etc When you’re the go-to person in your organisation, it’s gold having a trusted group of peers to lean on.
Our Senior Women in Finance Network, led by Rachel Cattanach and our 50% wāhine A&F team, has grown beautifully since launching last year. These events are all about connection, growth, and real talk — navigating career, leadership, and the juggle of life. The friendships and support in this space are truly special.
Most recently, we launched our Shared Services Round Table. This is a platform for SS leaders to connect over similar challenges like navigating teams through system upgrades/changes, centralising functions, and driving efficiencies. We are excited to see this Roundtable evolve and become as close knit as our Payroll Leaders Round Table!
A robust, supportive network can make all the difference. We are really grateful to be able to create a safe and fun space for leaders across accounting/finance & payroll, to connect, grow, and support one another.
So in summary: nurture your network. Show up, share openly, listen generously — and you’ll be amazed at what a positive impact it will have on you!
Here’s some ideas for finding relevant networks in Auckland (Leadership, Accounting, Finance & Payroll):
1. Attend Industry Meetups & Events
• Check platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup.com for local accounting, payroll, or finance networking events.
• Keep an eye on events hosted by CA ANZ, CPA Australia, and NZ Payroll Practitioners Association.
2. Join Professional Associations
• Get involved with organisations like the Institute of Financial Professionals New Zealand (IFPNZ) or Chartered Accountants ANZ — they often run networking sessions and leadership forums
3. Leverage LinkedIn
• Follow industry leaders and local recruiters (like Cultivate!) who post about upcoming events.
• Join LinkedIn Groups focused on NZ payroll, accounting, or finance – then participate in the conversations.
4. Ask Around
• Reach out to peers or mentors and ask what networks they’re a part of — you might get a warm intro to a private group or community.
5. Partner with a Specialist Recruiter
• Recruiters, like those at Cultivate, often create or facilitate exclusive networking opportunities for professionals in the field.
6. Coworking & Business Hubs
• Spaces like GridAKL and Generator often host finance/tech leadership events that attract professionals in accounting, payroll, and shared services.
In accounting, finance, and payroll, connections really count.
Whether you’re actively job hunting or simply keen to stay connected and inspired, investing in your network is one of the most powerful things you can do. If you’re curious about one of our Cultivate networks or even building one of your own, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s connect for a a kōrero (and a coffee), you never know what might come from it, a fresh idea, a new connection, or even your next big opportunity.
