AVP, Accounting & Controls

Canada Life; London; On-site; CAD 160,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education reimbursement

Mental health benefit

Volunteer day

Pension plan

Share ownership program

Employee discounts

ERGs and mentorship

Job summary

Canada Life is seeking an Assistant Vice-President, Accounting & Controls to lead the quarterly close for Workplace Benefits & Retirement, individual insurance and wealth segments, while strengthening internal controls and driving continuous improvements. Reporting to the VP, Canada Controller, this role shapes the accounting ecosystem and talent development across Canadian Finance.

The AVP will oversee end-to-end close processes, coach a team of 4 direct reports and a broader team of about 65

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting; CPA preferred.
• 10–15 years in progressive accounting/operational accounting.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS in financial services.
• Reliability Status Security Clearance – required if offered employment.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end quarterly accounting close.
• Maintain a strong culture of internal controls.
• Drive process improvements and efficiency initiatives.
• Coach and develop a leadership team (4 direct, ~65 FTE).
• Collaborate with Canadian and Lifeco Finance teams.
• Partner on new transactions and strategic initiatives affecting accounting.

Skills

IFRS knowledge

Financial services

Operational accounting

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree

CPA preferred

Job description

Permanent Full Time

Are you a transformational finance leader who thrives in complex environments, builds high-performing teams, and drives operational excellence? We are seeking an Assistant Vice-President, Accounting & Controls to lead key components of our Canada Finance accounting ecosystem.

In this critical leadership role, you will lead operational accounting processes while strengthening internal controls, elevating process quality and improvement, and fostering a culture of talent development and innovation.

About The Role

Reporting to the Vice-President, Canada Controller, Financial Planning & Accounting, the AVP, Accounting is responsible for leading the quarterly accounting close for Workplace Benefits & Retirement, Individual Insurance and Wealth, and driving strong internal controls and continuous improvement.

Key Accountabilities

• Quarterly Accounting Close
• End-to-end quarterly close processes, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of accounting
• Maintain a strong culture of internal controls
• Build relationships across the Canadian and Lifeco Finance teams
• Team Performance and Development
• Leadership to 4 direct reports and a broader team of ~ 65 FTE
• Provide coaching for performance and development
• Drive Process & Control Improvements
• Drive process efficiency and control enhancement initiatives
• Partner on new transactions and strategic initiatives to operationalize accounting impacts

Key Capabilities

• Execute for Results- Develop Talent
• Drive Innovation
• Build Collaborative Partnerships

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; CPA preferred
• 10–15 years progressive accounting/operational accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS and financial services accounting processes
• Reliability Status Security Clearance – this can only be completed with candidates who receive an offer of employment. This is a personal security status that is required as a condition of employment before an employee can gain access to Protected B information, assets or work sites as outlined by the Government of Canada website. The cost of submitting these checks will be covered by Canada Life

Given the size and scope of our organization, we have the flexibility for this position to be located in the following head office locations: Toronto, London, Winnipeg.

Career opportunities will be open a minimum of 5 business days from the date of posting, closing dates will vary depending on the search activity. All applications received will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Grow with Canada Life

We’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the financial, physical and mental well-being of Canadians. Our company is trusted by 1 in 3 Canadians and contributes to the strength of communities across the country.

We’re looking for people who live our values everyday: we step up, we do the right thing, and we deliver – for our customers, communities and each other. Are you someone who always strives to do the right thing, who steps up for themselves and others, and who delivers with impact? Then we want to hear from you!

What we offer

We’re committed to supporting our employees through every stage of their career. Here’s what you can expect as a full-time or part-time permanent team member:

• Career Development: Opportunities for career advancement, access to industry-leading learning programs and up to$2,000 annually towards education reimbursement.
• Health & Wellness:Flexible health and dental benefits, plus a $5,000 mental health benefit to support your well-being.
• Time Off:In addition to regular vacation and personal days, we support community involvement with a volunteer day.
• Financial Security:Company-matching pension plan,share ownership program and additionalinvestment options.
• Rewards and Recognition: Employee recognition programs, service milestone celebrations, employee discounts and more!
• Emphasis on Community: We provide a workplace where employees feel connected and supported through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, social clubs and events.

Learn more about Canada Life.

We’re committed to removing barriers and ensuring equal access to employment. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during the application process may contact [e-mail]. All information provided will be handled in accordance with applicable laws and Canada Life policies.

Canada Life would like to thank all applicants, however only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.