PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Controller is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting operations of the organization, ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial reporting. The role provides leadership and oversight across all accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, capital assets, intercompany accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls.
Working closely with the Associate CFO, the Controller plays a key role in strengthening financial processes, maintaining strong internal controls, supporting budgeting and forecasting activities, and ensuring compliance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations (ASNPO) and applicable tax and regulatory requirements.
The Controller leads the finance operations team and ensures the efficient execution of financial processes while supporting strategic financial initiatives and continuous improvement within the finance function.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES
The Controller oversees the organization’s accounting and financial operations, ensuring effective internal controls, accurate financial reporting, and efficient financial processes. This role is responsible for maintaining a well-structured accounting environment that supports operational efficiency, financial transparency, and regulatory compliance.
The Controller directs the activities of the Finance Department including accounts receivable, accounts payable, capital assets, intercompany transactions, and financial reporting processes. The position also contributes to the development of financial policies and procedures and supports senior leadership in financial analysis and reporting.
The Controller may act as a signing authority for the organization, subject to Board approval.
- Oversee the day-to-day accounting operations and financial transaction processing to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
- Oversee the integrity of accounting records, ledgers, and financial reporting processes to ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and organizational reporting requirements.
- Maintain, monitor, and strengthen internal control systems to safeguard organizational assets, ensure compliance with accounting and regulatory requirements, and support timely identification and mitigation of financial risks.
- Manage all accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, capital assets, intercompany transactions, and general ledger activity.
- Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
- Analyze financial results and provide variance analysis against budget and forecast to support informed decision-making.
- Support the annual budgeting and forecasting processes in collaboration with senior finance leadership.
- Review and approve journal entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Ensure proper recording and transfer of financial data into the accounting system and maintain accurate system balances.
- Coordinate the year-end audit process and work closely with external auditors to facilitate an efficient and timely audit.
- Oversee the organization’s capital asset tracking system, the annual physical capital asset count, and ensure compliance with policies related to asset acquisition, classification, and disposal.
- Assist in the development, implementation, and documentation of accounting policies and procedures.
- Ensure compliance with all government reporting and tax filing requirements while remaining current on relevant regulatory changes.
- Maintain a strong understanding of accounting standards, financial reporting practices, and internal control frameworks.
- Develop and maintain documented financial workflows, procedures, and operating manuals across all areas of responsibility.
- Lead and supervise the finance team, including assigning work, monitoring performance, providing coaching and training, and ensuring timely completion of responsibilities.
- Conduct performance evaluations and support professional development of finance team members.
- Prepare financial analyses and special reports as requested by senior leadership.
- Collaborate with other departments to support financial planning, reporting, and operational decision-making.
- Maintain professional knowledge through continuing education, professional associations, and industry publications.
- Provide support to the Associate CFO and act as backup when required.
- Support organizational initiatives and special projects as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES
The incumbent will follow safe work procedures, knowing and complying with all health and safety regulations. Personal protection and safety equipment will be used if/when required. Any injury or illness, unsafe acts or unsafe conditions must be reported immediately to their Supervisor.
REQUIREMENTS
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field.
- An accredited accounting designation (CPA or equivalent).
Experience:
- 7+ years’ experience in the accounting field, with 2+ years at a managerial level.
- Not for profit experience is an asset.
- Strong knowledge of accounting standards and financial reporting practices.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- High attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments while managing multiple priorities.
- Advanced proficiency with accounting systems including Sage, Sage Intacct, and Microsoft Office.
SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Occasional overtime may be required for special projects or to meet stringent deadlines throughout the year. A significant amount of overtime may be required at month end, budget and forecast time and at the fiscal year-end.
This position will be exposed to highly confidential material and/or information. Every effort must be made to ensure that sensitive information and materials critical in nature are safely stored and secure.
A considerable amount of time will be spent working with computer systems.
