AVP, Accounting & Controls

Permanent Full Time

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Are you a transformational finance leader who thrives in complex environments, builds high-performing teams, and drives operational excellence? We are seeking an Assistant Vice-President, Accounting & Controls to lead key components of our Canada Finance accounting ecosystem.

In this critical leadership role, you will lead operational accounting processes while strengthening internal controls, elevating process quality and improvement, and fostering a culture of talent development and innovation.

About the Role

Reporting to the Vice-President, Canada Controller, Financial Planning & Accounting, the AVP, Accounting is responsible for leading the quarterly accounting close for Workplace Benefits & Retirement, Individual Insurance and Wealth, and driving strong internal controls and continuous improvement.

Key Accountabilities

1. Quarterly Accounting Close

• End-to-end quarterly close processes, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of accounting
• Maintain a strong culture of internal controls
• Build relationships across the Canadian and Lifeco Finance teams

2. Team Performance and Development

• Leadership to 4 direct reports and a broader team of ~ 65 FTE
• Provide coaching for performance and development

3. Drive Process & Control Improvements

• Drive process efficiency and control enhancement initiatives
• Partner on new transactions and strategic initiatives to operationalize accounting impacts

Key Capabilities

• Execute for Results- Develop Talent
• Drive Innovation
• Build Collaborative Partnerships

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; CPA preferred
• 10–15 years progressive accounting/operational accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS and financial services accounting processes
• Reliability Status Security Clearance – this can only be completed with candidates who receive an offer of employment. This is a personal security status that is required as a condition of employment before an employee can gain access to Protected B information, assets or work sites as outlined by the Government of Canada  website. The cost of submitting these checks will be covered by Canada Life

Given the size and scope of our organization, we have the flexibility for this position to be located in the following head office locations: Toronto, London, Winnipeg.

Career opportunities will be open a minimum of 5 business days from the date of posting, closing dates will vary depending on the search activity. All applications received will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Grow with Canada Life 

We’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the financial, physical and mental well-being of Canadians. Our company is trusted by 1 in 3 Canadians and contributes to the strength of communities across the country.  

We’re looking for people who live our values everyday: we step up, we do the right thing, and we deliver – for our customers, communities and each other. Are you someone who always strives to do the right thing, who steps up for themselves and others, and who delivers with impact? Then we want to hear from you! 

What we offer:

We’re committed to supporting our employees through every stage of their career. Here’s what you can expect as a full-time or part-time permanent team member:

• Career Development: Opportunities for career advancement, access to industry-leading learning programs and up to $2,000 annually towards education reimbursement. 

• Health & Wellness: Flexible health and dental benefits, plus a $5,000 mental health benefit to support your well-being. 

• Time Off: In addition to regular vacation and personal days, we support community involvement with a volunteer day.  

• Financial Security: Company-matching pension plan, share ownership program and additional investment options. 

• Rewards and Recognition: Employee recognition programs, service milestone celebrations, employee discounts and more!  
• Emphasis on Community: We provide a workplace where employees feel connected and supported through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, social clubs and events.  

Learn more about Canada Life.  

We’re committed to removing barriers and ensuring equal access to employment. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during the application process may contact  talentacquisitioncanada@canadalife.com. All information provided will be handled in accordance with applicable laws and Canada Life policies.  

Canada Life would like to thank all applicants, however only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.