DIRECTOR OF FINANCE (SUCCESSION PLANNING FOR CFO)

Cape Breton University; Sydney; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Cape Breton University is seeking a Director of Finance to provide strategic leadership and oversee the financial operations of the institution. The position involves ensuring compliance with financial policies, managing relationships with partners, and leading a dedicated finance team. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in finance leadership, prioritize organizational goals, and contribute positively to the university's financial health.

Benefits

Defined benefit pension plan

Group insurance, health/dental

Wellness and vacation days

Highly competitive salary range

Qualifications

• 5+ years of senior leadership experience in Finance.
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to prioritize.
• Experience in public sector accounting and auditing is valued.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage financial systems and third-party reporting.
• Generate interim financial statements and manage cash flow.
• Lead the Finance Office and ensure operational efficiency.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Client service

Education

Undergraduate or graduate degree in Finance or Accounting

Certified Professional Accountant designation

Job description

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE (SUCCESSION PLANNING FOR CFO)

• Location: CBU
• Competition Number: 138
• Deadline: June 27, 2025 at 11:59 pm

Cape Breton University is actively seeking an experienced strategic leader to serve as their next Director of Finance in a full-time continuous role.

About Cape Breton University

Cape Breton University (CBU) is one of Canada’s youngest and most innovative universities. Committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and thought leadership, CBU strives to create a global academic experience and build a sustainable future for Cape Breton Island. Home to nearly 5,500 students, CBU is dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning. This excellence extends throughout the Institution’s diverse community of valued faculty and staff who relish the idea of helping to create and promote a quality environment at CBU. CBU delivers an authentic multicultural experience to all who become part of its community. Surrounded by pristine natural landscape, vibrant culture and welcoming communities on Canada’s stunning east coast, CBU attracts students from more than 50 countries around the world. CBU prides itself on providing personalized educational opportunities that focus on academics, research, student services, a vibrant campus life and cutting-edge technology.

Cape Breton University is deeply rooted in the Cape Breton community and understands the importance of its operations to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of our island. Our mission is underscored by principles of being both globally focus and locally connected.

Job Summary

Cape Breton University’s Finance Office provides financial support to departments, faculty and staff, while ensuring all financial transactions are processed in accordance with university policies and procedures. Reporting to the the Vice President, Finance & Operations, the Director of Finance provides a high quality, value-added approach to the financial services provided to departments of the University. Operating as a hands-on member of the university’s finance office, the Director will be responsible for the technical leadership in the management and control of financial systems for the University; the timely filing of all third-party reporting requirements of the University including the annual financial audit, tri-agency filings, other external funding agencies, CAUBO reports, and provincial reporting requirements; the generation of interim financial statements for the university, various financial analysis as required in support of university strategic priorities, cash management of university funds, and maintaining relationships with university business partners; and for the day-to-day management and operating efficiency of the Finance Office.

As part of CBU’s succession planning this role will have the opportunity to assume the responsibilities of the University’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Treasurer.

About You

As the ideal candidate, you possess a strong hands-on work ethic, strong communication skills, a forward-thinking mindset, strong analytical skills, a passion for building strong relationships and supporting team success.

To qualify, you will need an undergraduate or a graduate degree in Finance, Accounting, or related area with a Certified Professional Accountant designation or chartered accountant is required. A proven track record of senior leadership of a Finance team comprising for at least 5 years.

Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:

• Broad knowledge of public sector accounting, auditing, and taxation regulations.
• Excellent organizational skills with demonstrated initiative.
• Ability to prioritize and work to deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work with colleagues to further organization goals and objectives.
• Demonstrated interest in client service.
• Experience in a post-secondary education environment would be considered an asset.

Why CBU?

When you chose a career at CBU, you will have an opportunity to not only thrive professionally, but you will also be exposed to the myriad of cultural landscapes that are found on Cape Breton Island, creating a truly unique style of living. With an excellent benefit package that includes but not limited to: defined benefit pension plan, group insurance, health/dental, wellness and vacation days, along with a highly competitive salary range; CBU’s welcoming environmenthas made us an employer of choice for many.

Please upload all documents to Additional Documents if no designated area is listed. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

To apply for this opportunity, click HERE and upload your cover letter, resume, and references. Criminal Record Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening may be required.

If you would like to receive further information on this opportunity, please contact Terri Lynn Laffin ([e-mail]) or Human Resources ([e-mail]).

Cape Breton University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff, our faculty and its scholarship including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply but applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

CBU is committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and applicants are encouraged to self-identity if they are part of a marginalised community, or have experience working with Indigenous communities.

If we contact you for an interview and you are a person with a disability who requires technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance.