Financial Controller

Who we are

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Our team is made up of committed and passionate experts in their fields, including scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. Every day, we come to work to improve the health of the natural environment of the Grand River watershed for those who call it home or come to visit. We are a progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, collaboration and making a positive impact.

Who you are

You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve a shared goal, no matter their background or level of education and experience. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making even the smallest positive impact for your community and the planet.

Why work for us

At the GRCA, we don’t just talk about work-life balance, we promote and encourage it. We offer flexible work hours, one day a week working from home, and wellness initiatives like onsite yoga and an Employee Assistance Program. Our team feels a connection to their work, each other and the community we serve, and when you’re “at the office”, you won’t feel like you’re “at the office.” Our Administration Centre is located in a tucked away, natural oasis next to the Shade’s Mills reservoir, where a walk or lunch at the picnic tables provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature.

We offer staff development plans and open doors to help advance your career. And our employees benefit from being part of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), with 100% matching contributions from GRCA.

Overview of the opportunity

Reporting to the Manager of Finance, the Financial Controller is responsible for overseeing day-to-day accounting functions, preparing financial reports, analysis and forecasting within the Corporate Services Department and manages office services functions.

What you’ll do:

• Provide guidance, direction, mentorship and support for the staff in Corporate Services to ensure effective delivery of programs and promote employee development. Promote and practice the GRCA’s values in all actions. Schedule and facilitate regular team meetings.
• Establish strong working relationships and open collaboration within the Corporate Services team and with all divisions and departments within the GRCA.
• Prepare, in consultation with managers, financial statements, forecasts, special financial reports, and perform financial analysis.
• Responsible for managing the accounting software including implementing upgrades, recommending and implementing enhancements, trouble-shooting and working with consultants and support partners, IS&T department and/or Microsoft as needed.
• Oversee billings for grants, levies, property rentals, foundation and other receivables.
• Oversee all cash receipts and cash disbursements processing.
• Liaise with Auditors, perform internal audits and ensure adequate internal controls.
• Liaise with Senior Accountant with respect to HST treatment of revenue and expenses.
• Responsible for tangible capital asset accounting, maintaining the GP fixed asset module and reporting on tangible capital asset financial information required for the preparation of the audited financial statements in accordance with Public Sector Accounting Standards (PSAS).
• Inform policy development related to purchasing and moveable assets and ensure compliance, education and training as relates to policy requirements.
• Responsible for overseeing the office services function, overseeing file destruction requests (shredding) supporting corporate records management requirements.
• Supervise Accounting Assistant positions.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements as relates to finance which include tax and charitable regulations.
• Promote a health and safety culture within Corporate Services by ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, other applicable legislation, regulations, and GRCA policies and procedures.

Education

University degree in finance or business and Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) designation.

Experience

• At least 6 years of relevant experience. Prior leadership experience in a public sector organization is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) including Public Sector Accounting Standards and not-for-profit accounting. Working knowledge of auditing standards, HST legislation and regulations.
• Demonstrated competence using financial accounting systems (Dynamics GP ERP Software) and Microsoft Office suite.
• Strong written communication skills with demonstrated ability to prepare financial statements, correspondence, technical reports, board reports and other documents.
• Experience with policy development, procurement, and contract administration.
• Strong verbal communication skills with experience presenting information and making recommendations.
• Knowledge of Conservation Authorities’ roles and responsibilities.
• Demonstrated organizational, leadership and team-building skills. Strong collaboration skills on cross-departmental teams, and with external agencies, other partners and third parties as applicable.
• Basic knowledge of workplace legislation including, but not limited to the Employment Standards Act, WSIA, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Human Rights Code, and AODA.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive within the watershed.

Competencies

Professional Judgement

Integrity/Ethics

Goal/Action Oriented

Team Work

Leadership

Customer Focus

Compensation and Benefits

Salary Range $97,346 to $118,436 working 35 hours per week

Job stability and security

Comprehensive benefits package with mental health services and preventative care

Tuition reimbursement, and computer purchase loans.

Gold-standard Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund with 100% employer matching contributions.

Free year-round access to GRCA and Conservation Ontario conservation areas (parks).

Approximate Start Date: November 2024

To Apply: Please send a resume, cover letter and resume to [email protected] in MS Word or PDF format and quote “Financial Controller” in the subject line.

Deadline for Applications: Noon October 15, 2024

To view a full job description with competencies please visit Job Opportunities | Grand River Conservation Authority/

We thank you for your interest, however only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

GRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments. If you require any accessibility

accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact us. Any information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially

Pursuant to section 29(2) of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Individual Privacy Act R.S.O. 1990, C. M.56 the personal information contained on this form is collected under the legal authority of the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter C.27 and is used for recruitment purposes. Questions about the collection of personal information should be directed to the Manager of Human Resources, Grand River Conservation Authority, PO Box 729, 400 Clyde Road, Cambridge, Ontario N1R 5W6. 519-621-2761.