Northern Nishnawbe Education Council (NNEC) is non-profit educational organization. Under the direction of the Sioux Lookout District Chiefs, NNEC delivers secondary and post-secondary education programs and services for First Nations people. NNEC operates Pelican Falls First Nations High School, Pelican Falls Wellness Centre, Pelican Falls Centre, Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School, Wahsa Distance Education Centre and has offices in Lac Seul (head office), Sioux Lookout and Thunder Bay.
Under the authority and general direction of the Executive Director and senior management team, the Director of Finance is responsible for managing and coordinating an effective financial management system and its activities, including but not limited to supervision of financial staff, management of the financial data systems, financial reporting, budgeting, and cash management processes. The Director of Finance ensures that senior management and the NNEC Board of Directors have current and accurate financial information upon which to make their decisions. As a designated liaison with Indigenous Services Canada and other funders, timely and accurate submission of all reporting requirements is expected.
This position could be based in either Sioux Lookout or Thunder Bay, however travel will be required to both locations.
Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic and Operational Planning
· Develop and implement strategic financial plans to support the overall goals and objectives of the Northern Nishnawbe Education Council.
· Conduct financial forecasting and risk analysis to anticipate future financial conditions and inform decision-making.
· Collaborate with senior management to align financial planning with organizational priorities and program needs.
Financial Management
· Oversee the management and coordination of all fiscal reporting activities for the organization, including organizational revenue/expense reports, balance sheet reports, reports to funding agencies, development and monitoring of organizational and contract/grant budgets.
· Support the Executive Director and senior management team with preparing quarterly reports to be presented to the Board of Directors.
· Ensure the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, reports, and analysis to provide clear insight into the financial health of the organization.
· Implement and maintain effective financial management systems, controls, and procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices.
· Manage daily cash management processes including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and invoicing.
· Oversee payroll requirements, ensuring timely and accurate payroll processing.
Governance and Administration
· Establish and maintain effective relationships with Indigenous Services Canada and other funding agencies, ensuring compliance with all reporting requirements and funding agreements.
· Serve as a liaison between the finance department and other departments within the organization, fostering collaboration and communication.
· Oversee the preparation of financial materials and reports in support of the Education Council and collaborate with departmental leadership to create clear and concise organizational briefings, providing expertise and recommendations as needed.
People Management
· Oversee day-to-day activities including the management and coordination of staff performance in accordance with organizational standards.
· Oversee the recruitment, coaching, development, and mentorship of staff, while also fostering a culture of openness, flexibility, and resilience in the face of change.
· In collaboration with departmental leadership, ensure daily guidance and routine monitoring of staff performance including potential corrective action per established policies and procedures.
· Follow and enforce all policies and procedures and demonstrate influence and provide direction to staff on policy interpretation.
· Promote and work to implement a positive and cohesive working environment aligned with the culture and values of the Northern Nishnawbe Education Council.
· Maintain awareness of and ensure compliance with all related human resource legislation and regulations.
Skills and Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
· In-depth knowledge of financial management principles, practices, and procedures.
· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide strategic insights.
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and communicate financial information clearly and concisely.
· Proficiency in financial management software and computer systems.
· Flexibility and adaptability to respond to urgent requests.
· A working knowledge and understanding of NNEC First Nation communities and a commitment to supporting the established education and development goals.
· Fluency in Oji-Cree, Cree or Ojibway is considered an asset.
Experience and Education Requirements
· Professional accounting designation (CA, CMA, CGA, CPA) is required.
· Proven experience in a senior financial management position in a non-profit organization with revenues of $15,000,000 or greater.
· Demonstrated experience in financial policy development and strategic planning.
· Extensive experience with financial management software and systems.
· Proven supervisory experience, with a track record of leading and developing high-performing teams.
· Experience with First Nations, Provincial Education Legislation, and Indigenous Services Canada.
Other Requirements
· Valid Driver’s License and the ability to travel between Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout.
· Ability to successfully and periodically undergo an appropriate, credit, police record and vulnerable sector check is required.
Salary and Benefits Information
· Competitive salary.
· Benefits package.
· Three weeks vacation, two-week Christmas closure, one-week March Break closure.
All interested applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume outlining how you meet these qualifications to the c/o: MNP at applyvia@mnp.ca.
Closing Date: Until filled.
Candidates who meet the above criteria will be contacted for an interview. Proof of certifications will be required prior to employment.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
Schedule:
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- Education enviroment: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person
