Director of Finance

The Director of Finance provides strategic and operational leadership to Serpent River First Nation to ensure long-term financial sustainability, accountability, transparency, and compliance. The Director is responsible for overseeing all financial management functions, including financial planning, budgeting, accounting operations, reporting, audit coordination, and the continuous improvement of financial systems and controls in alignment with the Nation’s mission, vision, laws, and governance framework.

As a member of the Senior Management Team, the Director of Finance works collaboratively with the Director of Operations, Program Directors, Chief and Council, Council Committees, staff, and external partners to support informed decision-making and effective stewardship of financial resources. The Director of Finance exercises professional independence in fulfilling statutory, fiduciary, and reporting responsibilities and ensures financial practices meet applicable legislative, regulatory, and professional standards.

In support of Serpent River First Nation’s goal of providing high-quality financial management, the Director of Finance continuously strives to improve operations, strengthen internal controls, streamline work processes, and promote a culture of fiscal accountability across the organization.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Governance

• Provide overall leadership, direction, and management of the Finance Department, including staff, systems, and financial operations.
• Serve as a member of the Senior Management Team and contribute to organizational planning, coordination, and decision-making within an interdisciplinary environment.
• Provide expert financial advice, analysis, and recommendations to Chief and Council, the Finance Committee, Senior Management, and Program Directors.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support transparent and accountable financial management.
• Ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and appropriate use of financial information at all times.
• Ensure financial management practices comply with applicable accounting principles, industry standards, statutory and operational regulations, and the Serpent River First Nation Financial Administration Law and related policies.
• Establish, implement, and evaluate financial policies, procedures, and internal control systems to ensure fiscal accountability and risk mitigation.
• Exercise due diligence in all financial oversight and management functions.
• Continuously assess financial management operations and recommend improvements to systems, procedures, and workflows, including opportunities for automation and efficiencies.
• Lead and coordinate the preparation, administration, and monitoring of annual budgets and, where possible, multi-year forecasted budgets in collaboration with Program Directors and Senior Management.
• Provide guidance and support to Program Directors in the development and management of program budgets and funding applications.
• Monitor budget performance, analyze variances, and report findings and recommendations to Senior Management, the Finance Committee, and Council.

• Prepare and oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and statements.
• Ensure monthly and quarterly financial statements are presented to the Finance Committee and Council, respectively, in a timely and accurate manner.
• Oversee and coordinate the annual fiscal year-end process, including audit preparation and liaison with external auditors.
• Present audited financial statements to Chief and Council and lead the implementation of audit recommendations and post-audit action plans.
• Evaluate financial reporting systems and accounting procedures and recommend changes to improve accuracy, transparency, and effectiveness.

• Ensure accounts payable and accounts receivable are processed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Ensure the general ledger is properly maintained to support accurate tracking and reporting of financial information.
• Oversee purchasing and procurement processes, including purchase orders and cheque requisitions, in accordance with approved policies and delegated authorities.
• Ensure vendor accounts are established and maintained in accordance with financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Ensure committed funds are received, allocated, and reported accurately and on time.

• Maintain financial files for all contribution agreements and implement systems to track reporting requirements and submission deadlines.
• Provide financial information and analysis to support funding proposals, agreements, and ongoing program operations.
• Manage loans and mortgage renewals and make recommendations in the best interest of Serpent River First Nation.
• Ensure First Nation reserves and financial assets are established, recorded, and managed in accordance with policy and applicable requirements.

• Support the ongoing review and implementation of Serpent River First Nation’s community-driven strategic planning process.
• Prepare annual work plans aligned with the strategic plan to support financial management priorities.
• Through briefing notes and research, interpret and advise Council on federal and provincial legislation, policies, and initiatives that may impact the Nation’s financial management and operations.
• Develop appropriate communications related to financial management to support transparency and trust with the membership, consistent with the Director’s mandate.

• Coordinate, attend, and follow up on meetings of the Finance Committee and other Council committees as required.
• Participate on boards and committees as they relate to the position.
• Assist with other related duties as required to support the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Accounting designation and/or a combination of equivalent education and significant senior-level financial management experience within a First Nation or organization of similar size and complexity.
• Minimum five (5) years of relevant experience in a senior financial leadership role within a First Nation, public sector, or government-related organization.
• Strong knowledge of federal and provincial regulations and programs as they relate to First Nation operations and funding.
• Knowledge of industry standards related to financial management and accountability.
• Proficiency in accounting software; experience with QuickBooks Online is an asset.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Knowledge of contract management, negotiations, and related legal processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and standard office technology.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Must provide a clear CPIC.
• Knowledge of the Seven Grandfather Teachings.

WORK SITE LOCATION

The position is based in Serpent River First Nation in an office setting.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

The Director of Finance reports to the Director of Operations for administrative and organizational coordination purposes, with functional accountability to Chief and Council and the Finance Committee on all matters related to financial management, compliance, audit, and reporting.

AUTHORITY

The Director of Finance has the authority to make expenditure and financial decisions in accordance with approved budgets, the Financial Administration Law, and the Finance Policy and Procedures Manual. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring corporate fiscal resources are used responsibly and in compliance with established policies, procedures, and work plans.

Why Join Our Team?

This is an opportunity to play a key leadership role in building a healthy, prosperous, self-determined, and sustainable future for the Nation. The Director of Community Development will contribute directly to strengthening community capacity, protecting the territory, advancing economic independence, supporting housing and infrastructure development, and ensuring future generations continue to thrive on their lands.

Don't meet every qualification?

If you are excited about this position and meet most, but not all, of the listed qualifications, please still consider applying. We recognize that not one person might have every qualification in this job, and you just might be the right candidate!

Qualified Serpent River First Nation members or Indigenous applicants will be given priority consideration.

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. We appreciate your interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Interested applicants MUST submit a cover letter, resume, and three references from a direct supervisor/manager.

Attn: Human Resources

195 Village Road, Cutler Ontario, P0P 1B0

By: November 6, 2026 by 4:00 pm

https://serpentriverfn.bamboohr.com/careers/54?source=aWQ9OA%3D%3D