Reporting to the US CFO and working closely with the Canadian Executive Leadership team, and in close collaboration with the US Finance team, the Director of Finance – Canada is responsible for providing strategic financial leadership and oversight across all finance functions. The successful candidate will drive financial performance, support business growth initiatives, and ensure the integrity of financial reporting, compliance, and operational controls.

This role requires a seasoned finance executive with deep expertise in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), accounting, treasury, taxation, accounts receivable, payroll, risk management, and business strategy. They will serve as a trusted advisor to the VP GM – Canada and leadership team, helping guide the organization toward sustainable profitability and long-term success.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Leadership

Lead the development, execution, and monitoring of short- and long-term financial strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
Partner with the VP GM and leadership team to drive business performance, profitability, and operational efficiency.
Provide strategic financial guidance and recommendations to support key business decisions, investments, partnerships, and growth initiatives.

Financial Planning & Analysis

Direct all budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and business modeling activities across the Canadian operations.
Develop and maintain robust financial models to support strategic planning and decision-making.
Analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual business results, key performance indicators (KPIs), trends, and operational metrics.
Deliver detailed financial analysis and reporting to senior leadership, highlighting performance drivers and recommended actions.
Conduct ad hoc financial analyses related to pricing, profitability, market expansion, inventory management, capital allocation, and other strategic initiatives.

Accounting & Financial Operations

Oversee all accounting functions, including general accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, collections, payroll, tax compliance, and financial reporting.
Ensure accurate and timely month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes.
Maintain strong internal controls, financial governance, and accounting policies in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
Monitor cash flow, working capital, and overall financial health of the organization.

Compliance, Risk Management & Governance

Ensure compliance with all applicable financial, tax, regulatory, and statutory requirements.
Lead relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, financial institutions, and regulatory authorities.
Develop and maintain risk management frameworks to safeguard company assets and minimize financial exposure.
Ensure adherence to corporate policies, financial controls, and governance standards.

Leadership & Team Development

Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and accounting team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Establish performance objectives and provide ongoing coaching and development opportunities for finance personnel.
Drive process improvements and operational efficiencies across finance and accounting functions.

Data Analytics & Business Intelligence

Partner closely with Analytics and Operations teams to improve the quality, accuracy, and accessibility of financial data.
Enhance reporting capabilities and performance dashboards to provide greater visibility into revenue, costs, profitability, and key business drivers.
Leverage data-driven insights to support strategic planning and business decision-making.

Requirements:

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Finance or Accounting,
Master's Degree (MBA or equivalent) preferred.
Professional accounting designation (CPA, CA, CMA, CGA, or equivalent).

Experience

10–15 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including significant leadership responsibility.
Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role such as CFO, VP Finance, Finance Director, or Head of Finance.
Strong expertise in FP&A, accounting, financial reporting, taxation, budgeting, forecasting, and business performance management.
Demonstrated success partnering with executive leadership teams to drive business growth and profitability.
Experience managing external auditors, banking relationships, and regulatory compliance requirements

Competencies

Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities.
Exceptional leadership and team management skills.
Ability to influence and communicate effectively at all levels of the organization.
Strong business acumen with the ability to balance strategic priorities and operational execution.
Results-oriented with a proactive approach to identifying opportunities and mitigating risks.
Advanced financial modeling, reporting, and analytical skills.

Messer Americas

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Director, Finance/CFO - Canada