Skwah First Nation is looking for an experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Finance Department. This is a
part-time, permanent position located at the Skwah First Nation Band Office in Chilliwack, BC.
Under the direction of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the CFO will be responsible for managing the Finance Department of Skwah First Nation (SFN). The primary goal of the CFO is to ensure the financial integrity of SFN through the development, reporting, and management of financial records. This position will also ensure full compliance with all Band and Financial policies and procedures, while ensuring cost-effectiveness and relevance to the financial management needs of SFN as it continues to grow and evolve.
The CFO requires a strong understanding of financial management practices, including staying informed on trends, new developments in business practices, and changes to government regulations that impact the financial landscape. The CFO will play a key role in fostering and maintaining effective working relationships with the CAO, Chief and Council, management team, other staff members, community members, auditors, partnering agencies, suppliers, clients, and government representatives.
The CFO ensures a professional, ethical, and community-centered approach to all financial management activities, advocating for the financial stability and growth of Skwah First Nation.
Duties And Responsibilities
- Financial Controls & Systems: Develop and maintain financial controls to safeguard SFN's financial assets. Oversee all accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger, banking, and budgeting.
- Compliance & Reporting: Ensure compliance with SFN’s financial policies, procedures, and external agreements (e.g., ISC, CMHC, Health Canada). Provide accurate and timely financial reporting to CAO, Chief and Council, and funding agencies. Prepare monthly financial statements, annual reports, and year-end financial statements.
- Budget & Financial Planning: Assist the CAO in the preparation of SFN’s long-term financial strategy, including operating and capital budgets, and five-year plans. Ensure the accuracy of budget amendments and maintain a comprehensive management information system.
- Audit & Risk Management: Oversee financial audits, prepare supporting documents, and liaise with auditors. Provide strategic advice on managing financial risks and ensure the accuracy of SFN's financial records.
- Staff Supervision & Development: Supervise, mentor, and evaluate finance staff, ensuring appropriate training and resources. Oversee staff performance and ensure alignment with departmental goals. Assist in the recruitment and onboarding of new finance staff.
- Taxation & Contract Management: Oversee the Band’s property taxation system, contracts, and ensure tax billing, notices, and reports are completed.
- Cash Flow & Reconciliations: Monitor daily cash flows, complete bank reconciliations, and ensure inter-departmental charges are accurate. Ensure the timely payment of invoices and proper cash handling procedures.
- Financial Analysis & Improvement: Analyze financial and statistical data, identify areas for improvement, and recommend changes to financial policies and systems.
- Strategic Leadership & Collaboration: Participate in strategic planning, budgeting, and cross-departmental meetings. Provide financial guidance for departmental budgets and collaborate with other departments to improve financial service delivery.
- Other Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by the CAO or Chief and Council, ensuring SFN’s financial operations run efficiently and effectively.
Required Qualifications
- A recognized Canadian Accounting Designation (CPA) and post-secondary education in the areas of business or public administration and/or a minimum of three years’ directly related experience in a financial/accounting management position.
- Demonstrated and thorough knowledge of standard accounting principles.
- Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a mid-level or senior accounting finance role.
- Two (2) to three (3) years’ experience managing/supervising an accounting/finance team.
- At least three (3) years’ experience in a First Nations or Not-For-Profit environment is preferred.
- Experience establishing effective financial reporting systems quickly.
- Detailed knowledge of accounts payable and receivable, payroll, bank reconciliation, budget, and general ledger processing.
- Excellent competency in the preparation of financial statements and analysis.
- Possesses strong leadership, management, and strategic planning skills.
- Excellent time management, organizational, planning, and analytical skills.
- Possesses strong ethical standards, work ethic, and highly motivated.
- Ability to work in a team-geared, cultural, and politically sensitive environment.
- Can balance competing priorities, multitask, and work under pressure.
- Can be flexible and work in an environment that applies cross-training within other departments.
- Advanced computer skills including: Xyntax and other accounting software, Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, Internet, and Email). Advanced spreadsheet skills, including sorting, subtotaling, macros, importing, and exporting.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proven ability to communicate effectively on accounting and budget matters to ensure compliance with accepted policies and practices.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and abide by SFN’s Policies and Procedures.
- Knowledge, respect, and understanding of Stó:lō culture, traditions, and language is considered an asset.
- Experience working with First Nations communities is considered an asset.
- Valid BC Driver’s License, Class 5.
- Satisfactory Criminal Record Check; must be bondable.
About Us
Skwah First Nation has over 700 band members. The main reservation is in the Sto:lo Territory, near the historic Chilliwack Landing. Our original land in Chilliwack was the area where Five Corners now sits.
Skwah First Nation also encompasses other lands: Skwali just north of the Hope Slough, Skwahla at the base of Little Mountain, and Schelowat in Rosedale. Skwah FN also shares the administration of the Grass Indian Reserve #5, Pekw’Xe:yles, and Skumalasph IR#16. Chilliwack Landing Preschool has been teaching children from the community and surrounding areas for over 30 years, fostering the values of self-worth & self-preservation through the cultural connection within our children’s family traditions, elder teachings and community involvement. Our curriculum ensures our young children reach their full potential through outstanding care and educational programming. We are an accredited school open to the community of Chilliwack and Sardis. A great source of pride for Skwah First Nation is the River Spirit Canoe Club. Started and run by the Williams family, members compete and win regularly.
Throughout BC and the northwestern states, the Skwah First Nation works closely with School District #33, where students are introduced to traditional First Nations cultural teachings and experiences.
Compensation
The position offers a competitive compensation package with tax exemption for eligible candidates, with a salary range of $55.43 - 64.40 per hour.
Working Hours And Schedule
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm - 25hours/week
Ability to commute/relocate:
- 615 Wellington, Chilliwack, BC V2P 2G2
- Be able to reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
To apply:
The Skwah First Nation is an inclusive and equitable organization and encourages applications from qualified applicants, including persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. The position is open to all qualified applicants, although preference will be given to candidates of Indigenous ancestry (Pursuant to section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code).
About TRIMARK
Trimark People Solutions is a national full-service HR, Recruitment, and Training firm offering professional (HR) services. Our firm's values and principles of diversity, equity, and Indigenous inclusion guide its work. Our teams provide on-demand and managed HR services across a broad spectrum of professional services, helping organizations achieve success through their people and talent development. For more information, visit trimarkps.ca
