Director of Financial Services

The City

The City of Courtenay is situated on the east coast of central Vancouver Island, within the traditional lands of the K'ómoks First Nation. Accessible by land, sea or air, Courtenay is a culturally diverse community that offers supernatural beauty at its doorstep. The City (approximate population 25,000) is the urban and cultural hub of the larger community, the Comox Valley (approximate population 65,000).

The City is governed by a Mayor and six Councillors. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is responsible to Council for managing all City operations. The Financial Services Department is one of seven departments reporting to the CAO. Our organization's culture is demonstrated by our Corporate Mission and Core Values.

The Financial Services Department includes the Finance, Purchasing, Financial Planning, Payroll and Business Performance Services divisions. It is responsible for managing the financial and purchasing systems, supporting the activities of other departments, and providing financial information to the public.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the CAO, the Director of Financial Services oversees the Development of the City’s financial plans and strategies to ensure the Corporation’s financial sustainability; Develops and oversees the implementation of financial and purchasing policies, standards, controls, and associated processes ensuring compliance with municipal and other relevant legislation and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP); Directs the overall operations of the Financial Services Department including treasury and purchasing services; Fulfills the statutory duties of the Financial Officer; and liaises with the RCMP on financial matters relating to community policing; Serves as a key member of the Senior Management Team for the organization.

The Successful Candidate Will Have:  

•    Degree in commerce, business admin or other relevant discipline
•    CPA, CA, CGA or CMA designation
•    Membership in good standing with the CPA, CA, CGA or CMA professional association     
•    Substantial (11-13 years) experience in financial management with considerable related experience at a management level in a local government setting
•    Extensive knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles, standards and practices for local government
•    Extensive knowledge of local government legislation and other legislation affecting financial activities
•    Considerable knowledge of financial controls and risk management, insurance issues, and investment philosophies and practices related to local government
•    Considerable knowledge of purchasing law, practices and procedures
•    Exceptional interpersonal, communication, presentation, facilitation, analytical, problem solving, decision making, leadership and general management skills
•    Ability to effectively plan and manage a multi-function department
•    Ability to effectively lead, coach, and motivate staff in a team environment
•    Ability to deal effectively with representatives of government, business, financial institutions, the general public, City staff and Council members
•    Valid BC Class 5 Drivers License
•    Criminal Records Check

This full-time position is available soon.

We offer the opportunity to live and work in a community surrounded by natural beauty along with an attractive salary and a comprehensive benefit package including:
•    A comprehensive health benefits plan including the City’s Employee and Family Assistance Plan
•    Enrolment in the Municipal Pension Plan                 
•    Annual vacation, cumulative sick plan and other paid leaves
•    Professional development & training opportunities

If you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding leadership role, forward your resume and cover letter to Tall Cedars Search, by 5:00 pm PST, Dec. 9, 2021.  A Supplementary Information Package can be obtained from the Consultant, which includes a complete job description, benefits, and details of the compensation.  Late applications will not be considered.  To apply or request the package, please contact Flo Follero-Pugh, Tall Cedars Search & Recruitment;  flo@tallcedars.ca.

We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those short listed will be contacted.

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