Finance Manager

at  Executrade Consultants Ltd

THE OPPORTUNITY

We have an exciting opportunity for a Finance Manager to join the amazing Town o.f Edson. They are seeking an experienced and driven Financial Manager to lead their financial operations team. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), this position provides insight and expertise to support the financial planning of the Town, mitigates current and potential risks, as well as provides leadership and direction to the Accounting Supervisor in assisting with the day-to-day operation of the Town’s financial systems, processes and policies. The Finance Manager may also assist other areas of the Financial Services area.
All Managers are responsible for modeling, upholding, enforcing, and contributing to a workplace culture of honesty, integrity, and respect, and one that is premised on the Organization’s core purpose: providing meaningful, innovative, and efficient services to Edson residents.

SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS

• Excellent communication skills including written, verbal/interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated experience in high-level analytics, problem-solving, and team leading.
• Fully conversant in the use of Microsoft Office applications and other financial system databases.
• Ability to foster a collaborative team environment and contribute to its growth.
• Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• History of contributing to a positive cultural environment.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND CREDENTIALS

Generally, the following minimum credentials are expected:

• Certified Professional Accounting Designation (CPA or equivalent) is preferred or is completing their designation.
• NACLAA Level I would be an asset
• At least 5 years directly related progressively responsible experience managing financial employees and functions is desired
• Experience working in a municipal environment. Preference to Alberta experience.
• Knowledge of Public Sector Accounting Standards.
• Experience with the following municipal-based software: Diamond (Great Plains), Questica Budgeting, and PSD Citywide Asset Suite.

Alternative combinations of education and experience which demonstrably provide the required knowledge and skills may be eligible in certain circumstances.

Primary Responsibilities and Authority

• Oversee the administration of all financial services and functions including financial planning, analysis, accounting controls, taxation and assessment, budget development, investments, grant reporting, asset/inventory protection, and financial statements.
• Develop financial policy, controls, and systems, and make recommendations for improvement.
• Compare and analyze actual results with budgeted forecasts, monitor variances, identify trends, and recommend necessary actions.
• Assist in the development and updating of financial policies and procedures.
• Compile Quarterly reports for Council.
• Reconciliation of bank accounts monthly and prepare corresponding journal entries.
• Work with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on the yearly budgeting process.
• Assist with the coordination, development, and implementation of multi-year Operating and Capital budgets.
• Establish and maintain contracts with financial contractors or consultants.
• Work with Finance team members to prepare audit working papers and account reconciliations; liaise with town-appointed Auditors and lead the Audit process.
• Update and maintain the Tangible Capital Assets (TCA) register and prepare TCA for the yearly audit.
• Serve as the Finance/Admin Section Chief backup in the Emergency Operations Centre during a disaster response.
• Maintain technical knowledge by attending educational workshops/webinars, and by reviewing relevant publications.
• Assist the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to be compliant and up to date with current and newly implemented accounting standards of the Public Sector Accounting Board for Financial Reporting.
• Understand and comply with the Municipal Government Act and other provincial legislation, Town Bylaws, contracts, and policies.
• Manage the grant agreements and deadlines to enable the preparation and submission of grant status reports.
• Assume the managerial responsibilities of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in case of their absence.
• Perform tasks consistent with the position, including special projects and assignments as may be required on an ad hoc basis, and as assigned by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Human Resources, Team Management, and Leadership

• Provide outstanding leadership by modeling the way, inspiring a shared vision, challenging the process, encouraging heart and enabling others to act.
• Create a team environment that inspires hard work, dedication, collaboration, and excellence.
• Cultivate a working environment that embodies integrity, trust, and respect.
• Train, mentor, and support staff to ensure their success and professional growth, while delegating sufficient authority to enable independent and creative completion of assignments.
• Work with staff to recognize and support a balanced lifestyle.
• Manage challenging personal and interpersonal dynamics sensitively and respectfully; respond appropriately to reports of disrespectful conduct.
• In collaboration with Human Resources, manage the hiring, terms of employment, evaluation, discipline, and termination of employees.
• Provide recommendations to the General Manager regarding the organizational structure and staffing of the Department.

Financial and Budgetary

• Prepare and recommend annual departmental operating and capital budgets and asset renewal.
• Ensure that all procurement is completed in accordance with the approved budget, the Purchasing Policy, and other legal or policy requirements.
• Ensure fiscal responsibility and pursue alternative funding sources (e.g. grants) wherever possible.
• Authorize purchases and accounts within assigned spending limits.

Health and Safety

• Model and foster a positive culture in which Health and Safety are highly valued and prioritized.
• Comply with all Town policies, work procedures, rules, safety instructions, and relevant directives in the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation, and Code.
• Promote health and safety initiatives within the department.
• Participate in workplace safety initiatives, including inspections and audits.
• Report all incidents, including near misses, to appropriate personnel.

Policy Development/Administration

• Develop and recommend a long-range departmental planning framework by means of 3-year operational plans, multi-year capital plans, and Council-approved master plans.
• Prepare reports for the Department related to the position.
• Respect organizational and staff confidentiality.

Public Relations

• Foster positive and responsible working relationships with other government agencies, the private sector, community organizations, and residents.
• Identify and develop strategies and tangible engagement plans for building and enhancing effective relationships with stakeholders and public communication.