Chief Finance Offier

Mission Control; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in space exploration is seeking a CFO to oversee financial operations and strategy. This role involves financial planning, risk management, and team leadership, contributing to innovative projects in the commercial space industry. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in finance, strong leadership skills, and a passion for advancing space missions. Join a diverse team dedicated to inspiring future generations through groundbreaking work in space exploration.

Benefits

Comprehensive Compensation and Benefits Package

Relocation assistance

Employee Stock Option plan

Unlimited unpaid time off

Two weeks of sick/personal leave

Qualifications

• At least 8-10 years of experience in finance.
• Strong understanding of Canadian financial regulations.
• Experience in M&A strategy and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company's financial strategy.
• Lead preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Manage relationships with financial institutions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance

Master's preferred

Tools

QuickBooks Online

Job description

Mission Control located in Ottawa, Canada. We're looking for an enthusiastic and talented individual to join our team.

About Us

Mission Control empowers explorers to advance their space missions. We innovate to make modern technology viable to use in space, unlocking the potential of new scientific and commercial opportunities on Earth, Moon, Mars, and Beyond.

We have a clear vision : to be a workplace where a diverse and thoughtful mix of talented people want to learn and do their best work. We are inspired by a vision of the world in which access to space is ubiquitous and inspires all humans to treasure planet Earth and marvel at the universe.

Please visit our website to learn more about our team and ongoing projects : https : / / missioncontrolspace.com.

About the Job

The CFO will serve as a key member of the executive team, responsible for all financial aspects of the company, including financial planning and reporting. This role will also involve developing and implementing financial strategies, including sourcing, structuring and closing investment rounds that ensure sustainable growth, optimize cash flow, and manage financial risks. The CFO will collaborate closely with the CEO and senior leadership to drive the financial direction of the company, while maintaining a strong focus on financial integrity, compliance, and operational efficiency. There is an opportunity for the CFO to take on additional responsibilities in other operational elements of the business.

You will support and become a critical member of our team - a team of engineers, scientists, and space enthusiasts, who are passionate about being part of humanity's next bold steps in space exploration, with a view to inspiring the next generation and the public through our work and our contributions to exploring the solar system!

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Financial Leadership and Strategy :

Develop and execute the company's financial strategy, ensuring alignment with the overall business objectives.

• Advise the CEO and leadership team on financial decisions that drive growth and operational efficiency.
• Establish, implement, and maintain financial policies, controls, and procedures that ensure compliance with Canadian financial regulations and standards.
• Financial Planning & Analysis :

Lead the preparation and regular review of anual budgets, major project budgets and financial forecasts.

• Provide ongoing financial analysis and insights to support decision-making, including forecasting and scenario planning.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and anual financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Cash Flow and Risk Management :

Oversee cash flow management to ensure the company has sufficient liquidity to meet business needs and capital expenditures.

• Develop and implement risk management strategies, including financial risk assessments and insurance coverage.
• Manage relationships with financial institutions including banks and debt providers to optimize financing options and operational liquidity.
• Accounting and Compliance :

Ensure timely and accurate preparations of financial reports in compliance with Canadian Accounting Standards for Private Enterprises (ASPE) and potentially moving to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in the near future.

• Oversee tax filings including claims for SR&ED tax credits, ensuring compliance with federal and provincial tax regulations.
• Manage transition from external review engagements to audited financial statements and coordinate with accountants to ensure all financial documentation is compliant with applicable regulations and standards.
• Team Management and Development :

Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing finance team.

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the finance department.
• Work with other departments to ensure the financial team is aligned with overall business goals.
• Fundraising and Investor Relations :

Maintain shareholder capitalization table

• Support fundraising initiatives, including preparing financial documents and business plans to engage potential investors or financial institutions.
• Work closely with the CEO and the Board of Directors and corporate counsel to manage relationships with investors, providing updates on company performance and strategic initiatives.
• Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) :

Support the identification, evaluation, and execution of potential merger and acquisition opportunities that align with the company's growth strategy.

• Manage the financial due dilligence process for M&A transactions, ensuring thorough analysis of financial, legal, and operational risks.
• Collaborate with legal, operational, and executive teams to structure deals and negotiate terms.

Skills and Experience

• CPA required.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's preferred).
• At least 8-10 years of experience in finance, with a proven track record in senior finance roles, preferably in a technology startup environment at the scaling phase (experience as a CFO is a plus).
• Strong understanding of Canadian financial regulations, tax law, and accounting standards (ASPE and / or IFRS).
• Experience with financial forecasting, budgeting, and cash flow management.
• Track record of working closely with CEO, board members and outside investors through successful debt and equity financing transactions.
• Proven ability to develop financial models and implement financial strategies that drive business growth and mitigate risk.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with senior management, investors, and external partners.
• Expertise in financial software and tools (experience with QuickBooks Online is a plus).
• Experience in M&A strategy, negotiations, and integration processes is highly preferred.

Bonus points for :

• Experience in a technology-focused, high-growth company, particularly in a Canadian or North American market.
• Knowledge of venture capital and private equity, with experience managing investor relations.
• Familiarity with government funding programs, grants, and incentives available to Canadian businesses.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for helping companies scale.

Special Comments

Security : Successful candidates must be eligible to obtain a security clearance in Canada at the reliability status level (and potentially at the higher levels), and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP).

Due to the security clearance required for Mission Control's facility, only Canadian Citizen's and Permanent Residents are eligible at this time.

Location

Mission Control is located in Ottawa, Ontario.

Some travel may be required at certain times for this role, always following the Health and Safety Guidance of the Government of Canada.

What's In It For You?

• Be on the forefront of space exploration and the emerging commercial space industry.
• Work to solve problems with a team of intelligent, fun people!
• Comprehensive Compensation and Benefits Package commensurate with experience and including vacation pay, wellness plan (health, vision, dental) and unlimited unpaid time off.
• Relocation assistance for eligible employees.
• Two weeks of sick / personal leave per year.
• Employee Stock Option plan for equity sharing.
• Work in a respectful and inclusive workplace. It is extremely important to us that all employees feel safe and supported at work, and feel able to bring their whole selves to work.
• Be part of a family-friendly company, where we understand the needs of working parents with young children (because many of us are too!).
• Bi-weekly coffee chats for connecting with colleagues socially, and for mentorship by senior staff.

How To Apply

Please apply directly through this posting, or send your application by email to [e-mail]. Application materials include :

• Cover letter and resume as a single PDF (required)
• Portfolio material, references, or other indications of exceptional past work (optional)

As part of our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we accept and encourage anonymized resumes.

We will accept applications until the position is filled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.