Financial Reporting Accountant

General Accountability: 

Plays a key role in the overall operations of the Financial Services department, providing support including day-to-day transactional processing/accounting, operational systems knowledge/integrity, and project implementation. Responsibilities include developing, improving, and managing operating processes and procedures for users, both internal and external to the department. Acts as a resource for both the Financial Services department, other departments on campus, students and external partners; in areas such as transactional accounting related functions, education and compliance specific to institutional and departmental level polices, and education and compliance specific to external regulations (GAAP, CRA). A high degree of professionalism and strict confidentiality is required, while providing exceptional customer service

Organization and Structure: 

The Financial Reporting Accountant, Financial Services, is the first point of contact for a diverse group of individuals and organizations, internal and external, specific to systems and accounting related issues.  

The Financial Reporting Accountant will report to the Manager, Financial Reporting. This position works closely with other members of Financial Services team as well as University stakeholders. 

Nature and Scope: 

The scope of the position includes coordination of the full range of external/internal reporting, year-end preparation, government and agency reporting and assist with the maintenance and integration of financial systems. The position will develop key internal and external relationships and assist in process reviews and general accounting functions. 

Key to the success of the Financial Reporting Accountant is their ability to develop strategic partnerships, understanding the key challenges of the faculties, schools & departments and providing advice based on best practice. The incumbent requires a high degree of motivation, critical thinking, considerable independence, while exercising discretion and initiative, judgement, tact and diplomacy and well-polished communication and interpersonal skills. In addition, the incumbent needs to have significant knowledge and experience in Canadian GAAP, financial reporting and business processes. Some experience in indirect tax would be beneficial. 

The Financial Reporting Accountant provides comprehensive, strategic and operational advice, guidance and support in all facets of operations within a complex, multi-system oriented environment. This role requires the ability to develop strategic partnerships, understand the key challenges of the University as well as the Financial Services department. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Contributes to financial planning and strategic direction of the University by:

• Assisting in implementing short and long-range financial plans to optimize the University's financial effectiveness in alignment with institutional strategic goals.
• Providing strategic advice on the effective and efficient use of financial and human resources that are consistent with organizational objectives. 
• Monitoring relevant financial indicators as needed for the functional team. 

Contributes to financial management of the University by:

• Providing advice on the application of financial policies and procedures.
• Participating in the evaluation and implementation of systems and tools.
• Troubleshooting of issues in systems and tools as needed.
• Participating in project planning and implementation. 

Contributes to financial knowledge and understanding across the University by:

• Participating in the review of business processes and implementation of new processes. 
• Participating in the development and delivery of training initiatives.
• Working in collaboration with other members of Financial Services team to share knowledge, best practices, and opportunities for improving efficiencies.
• Keeping abreast of issues pertaining to the University, including participation on University committees.
• Providing mentoring and education for University staff.
• Acting as resource within Financial Services team by providing direction and coordination for various functions and processes.

REPORTS TO

Manager, Financial Reporting

 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS 

Qualifications & Experience: 

• Professional Accounting Designation, in good standing (CPA or foreign equivalent as deemed by employer.)
• 7 years of progressive accounting experience in a computerized environment including experience in developing spreadsheets, analytical reports and financial statements.

Skills & Knowledge: 

• Advanced experience with complex reconciliations and analysis of large amounts of financial and other data. 
• Demonstrated ability to develop and utilize complex spreadsheets and financial models.
• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.). 
• Strong skills at providing positive and improved client focused service.
• Strong organizational and planning skills, including ability to determine priorities, be self-directed, and work with minimal supervision. 
• Experience in an academic or complex professional environment.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and short timelines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with strong attention to detail. 
• Ability to independently apply knowledge of policies and procedures.