Updating Results

Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)

4.0
  • 1,000 - 50,000 employees

Mingxiao Zhao

It's rewarding to see my contributions lead to tangible improvements in our financial management and departmental success.

What's your job about?

As a finance graduate at FBP, I support the delivery of precise budget management and financial reporting, assist with internal budget development, lead the month-end accruals process, produce monthly financial statements, and provide analysis and advice on financial performance, while collaborating with internal stakeholders on end-of-month management reporting.

Finance Business Partner (FBP) supports accurate budget management and monthly reporting, assists groups in developing their internal budgets, leads the month-end accruals process, produces financial reports, and provides analysis and advice on financial performance while collaborating with stakeholders on end-of-month management reporting.

One of the specific tasks is we record accrual journals every month, this involves verifying transactions and ensuring all financial activities are recorded accurately. And then begin preparing for the month-end accruals process, identifying outstanding expenses that need to be accounted for in our financial system.

What's your background?

I have two different stories to share that have most importantly influenced my life. The first story is about my backpacking trip to Lhasa, a place of Buddhism. During this journey, I faced many survival challenges, such as crossing uninhabited areas, camping in desolate fields swarmed with locusts and other unknown lives, and hitchhiking on cliffs prone to mudslides and landslides. This trip made me realize both the preciousness and the fragility of life. And at critical moments, the importance of trust and collaborative cooperation became evident.

It was precisely because of the experiences in the first story that I embarked on the beginning of the second story. I participated in a PhD program, as I am eager to chase more potential for myself. My PhD experience has greatly contributed to my growth, consistently presenting unexpected challenges along the way. It has taught me how to adjust myself in difficult situations and to maintain a spirit of perseverance. This experience has made me realize that one can still grow even when facing headwinds.

My current job position: 2024 Finance Graduate – Finance Business Partner Team - Finance and Resource Management Branch - Finance and Budget Division. I secured my current job position by applying to the AGGP program in the Accounting and Finance Management stream.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes. I think so. Someone with a different background could do my job, but the key is adaptability and the ability to learn quickly. 
Essential characteristics include strong analytical skills and excellent communication abilities. It’s also important to be resourceful and have problem-solving skills. Familiarity with technology and an openness to continuous learning are crucial to keeping one’s capabilities up to date. 

What's the coolest thing about your job?

The most fulfilling aspect of my job is my strategic involvement in financial forecasting and variance analysis. I particularly enjoy delving into the data to uncover trends and insights that drive our strategic decisions. These moments—when my analysis directly influences business strategy—reaffirm that my work is pivotal and impactful. It's rewarding to see my contributions lead to tangible improvements in our financial management and departmental success.

What are the limitations of your job?

While I don’t face significant limitations in my current position, it’s important to consider potential challenges someone else might encounter. The job may require adapting to a rigid hierarchical structure, which can limit flexibility in decision-making and creativity.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

  1. Embrace uncertainty: Use your student years to explore diverse interests and embrace the unknown. The lessons you learn from stepping outside your comfort zone are invaluable.
  2. Build relationships: Cultivate meaningful connections with peers, professors, and mentors. These relationships can offer support, open doors, and provide guidance long after graduation.
  3. Prioritize self-care: Balance your ambitions with your well-being. Remember that maintaining your physical and mental health is crucial for sustained success. Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, and don't underestimate the power of a good night's sleep.