Director of Finance

Our client is seeking a well-rounded senior finance leader who is passionate about supporting impactful health research. As the Director of Finance, you’ll play a critical role in overseeing financial operations within a dynamic, reputable not-for-profit organization known for its support of cutting-edge health research. You’ll contribute to the organization’s mission by ensuring sound financial management and providing strategic financial insights that will support future growth.

Who- the Companies:
This organization is widely respected for funding and advancing world-class health research. With significant, long-term funding secured, the organization is poised for exciting growth, with plans to hire additional team members and expand its impact across Canada. This is a workplace you can feel proud to contribute to, knowing that you’re supporting vital advancements in healthcare and scientific research.

What- the Role:
Our client is seeking a new Director of Finance to lead and support the financial operations of their Canada-wide team, administering vital initiatives and projects. As a key member of the senior team, you will be instrumental in maintaining financial stability and providing strategic oversight as the organization continues to grow nationally. Reporting to the CFO, the successful candidate will manage diverse financial and operational responsibilities, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and ensuring compliance. This role requires someone proactive, detail-oriented, and driven by the challenge of supporting a dynamic organization while helping to shape its financial strategy and effectiveness.

Key responsibilities and accountabilities will include:
Accounting Operations:

• Lead the Accounting Coordinator in full-cycle accounting, including AP/AR, quarterly grant disbursements, remittances, and reconciliations using Sage Intacct.
• Prepare period-end journal entries, allocations, and payroll entries.
• Manage cash flow forecasts, ensuring timely receipt and processing of funding.
• Lead the budgeting process in collaboration with various departments
• Oversee compliance with GST, T3010 Charity Return, Health Tax, WorkSafe, and other payroll/statutory filings.
• Ensure adherence to Canadian Accounting Standards for Not-for-Profit Organizations (ASNPO) and external funder guidelines.
• Prepare budget variance reports and financial analyses for senior leadership.

Financial Reporting & Management:

• Prepare quarterly financial statements and reports for the Finance and Audit Committee/Board.
• Lead the annual audit process, including external grant audits.
• Develop multi-year budgets, forecasts, and financial models in collaboration with departments.
• Ensure timely submission of financial reports to the CFO, President, and Board.
• Reconcile research grant finances and track remaining balances.
• Maintain internal financial policies and mentor finance staff.

Internal Support & External Stakeholder Communication:

• Lead payroll processing with HR and ensure accuracy in pension/benefit plans.
• Act as the primary liaison with the external IT provider and manage IT purchases.
• Review and approve travel/event agreements with the Administrative Coordinator.
• Provide financial education and guidance to external stakeholders.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Assist with ad-hoc projects and executive team requests.

Who- the Candidate:
We are seeking a seasoned finance professional with strong leadership and organizational skills to step into the role of Director of Finance.

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, or a related field; CPA designation is strongly preferred.
• Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience in finance, with experience in not-for-profit or public sector organizations highly desirable.
• Strong background in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls.
• Experience working within multi-departmental teams and a collaborative work environment.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across diverse teams.
• High level of proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office, especially Excel.

Our client is in an exciting period of growth and transformation, and they’re looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys wearing many hats. The ideal candidate will have an adaptable, proactive attitude, with a proven track record in financial operations, compliance, and strategic planning. Key qualifications include extensive experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and audit coordination. Strong skills in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and familiarity with financial software are essential.

Note: Candidates must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.Where: Vancouver outside of Downtown.

The Director of Finance will work from the office ~2-3 days a week (please discuss hybrid schedule options with SWIM).

How Much:
Base salary commensurate with experience and skills in the range of $105,000 – $115,000 – please discuss with SWIM. Additionally, this organization provides strong health & dental benefits and 4 weeks’ vacation.

When & How to Apply:
Swim Recruiting is presenting shortlisted candidate profiles directly to the hiring team for review. There will be a 3-step interview process.   Please do not hesitate to apply if you are qualified, interested, and would like to discuss further! The confidentiality of currently employed candidates will be highly respected by SWIM and by our client. If you already have a Recruiter at SWIM, please reach out to them directly. If you do not yet have a contact at Swim Recruiting, please hit ‘APPLY NOW’ to send us your resume. Thank you!