ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

Our confidential client is a public-school division located in rural Alberta.

THE ROLE

Our client is looking for a Director of Finance.

The Director of Finance provides strategic leadership and monitoring of the division’s financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility, transparency, and compliance with policies, legislation, and best practices. This role supports decision-making through accurate financial reporting and the implementation of efficient accounting procedures and financial controls. Additionally, this Director oversees payroll, treasury, purchasing, and business functions, requiring exceptional accuracy, attention to detail, and time management to meet critical deadlines. Given the nature of the role, confidentiality and discretion are essential.

THE CANDIDATE

The successful candidate is an experienced, values-driven leader with demonstrated expertise in public-sector finance, governance, and divisional leadership. They bring a strong commitment to continuous improvement, and collaborative leadership.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A bachelor’s degree with a focus in business administration, accounting or finance. The equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• A CPA Designation (required).
• 5 – 7 years’ accounting/finance experience preferred and leadership experience.
• A successful track record within a publicly funded organization (education preferred).
• Demonstrated success with working with board members and committees.
• A clear Alberta Vulnerable Sector check.

Additional experience to a strong candidacy will include:

• A successful track record in financial management including development of budgets and monthly reports for the board.
• Preparation of board packages prior to board meetings so members can review in advance.
• Other duties assigned periodically by the Secretary/Treasurer.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance & Accountability:

• Ensure compliance with provincial and federal financial regulations, as well as divisional policies and procedures.
• Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors and lead the annual audit process, including preparation of working papers, management responses, coordination of documentation, and implementation of audit recommendations.
• Lead the preparation, review, and submission of all required financial reporting to the Government of Alberta, the division’s Senior Leadership Team and the Board.

Operations & Financial Oversight:

• Provide leadership in payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial reporting functions.
• Oversee the financial data in the division’s ERP software (GL code maintenance and financial security controls).
• Administer insurance requirements, including coverage and claims management.

 Budgeting & Financial Management:

• Responsible for the day-to-day activities of the finance department to support accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Support the preparation and administration of the annual budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources.
• Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying risks and opportunities to maintain fiscal stability.

Financial Strategy & Planning:

• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with the division’s vision, mission, and strategic priorities.
• Develop financial models and forecasting tools to support decision-making by senior leadership.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Supervise and support finance department staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Effort and Working Condition:

• Extended hours may be necessary during peak financial planning and reporting periods.
• High level of responsibility and accountability in managing financial resources and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

We understand and appreciate our clients’ ever-increasing desire for candidates to reflect the communities in which they work and live. The Vogel Group is committed to inclusivity and diversity as we search for outstanding leadership talent for our clients.

We encourage candidates of all ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, physical challenges, sexual orientations, and identifications to feel confident in exploring and declaring candidacy for any of our search assignments.

For a full profile or to apply, please contact:

Rick Vogel, ICD.D                       

Founding Principal                       

780.665.4965 ext. 101                  rick@thevogelgroup.ca