Financial Controls and Communication Analyst

University-of-Waterlo; Southwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 74,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Waterloo is seeking a Financial Controls and Communications Analyst to execute internal control reviews, document processes, and ensure compliance across financial cycles. You will analyze data, design testing plans, and support training to keep the campus aligned with standards.

Responsibilities include preparing findings, communicating with stakeholders, and updating guidance on policies, systems, and processes, while collaborating with Finance teams on improvements.

Qualifications

• University undergraduate degree preferably in Accounting, Business or Finance.
• CPA designation from CPA Canada is an asset.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in an accounting/finance-related environment.
• Experience with a significant financial ERP system is preferred.
• Broad auditing experience; higher education or not-for-profit exposure is a plus.
• Experience documenting/internal controls and training materials is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute internal control reviews.
• Document business processes and internal controls within financial cycles.
• Analyze financial data to identify trends or patterns indicating risk.
• Develop testing plans and templates for new items.
• Conduct post-reviews of financial transactions to ensure compliance.
• Prepare findings and communicate to the University community.
• Support training and communications on policies and controls.
• Update Finance WCMS content and Confluence wiki.
• Assist in refreshing manuals and training materials with Finance.
• Provide backup to other Finance functions as required.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Attention to detail

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business or Finance

CPA designation from CPA Canada (asset)

Tools

Unit4 Business World

SharePoint

Teams

Excel (Microsoft Office)

Job description

At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how we can bring big ideas to life, together. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day.Learn more about our recruitment process.Job Requisition ID:2026-02986Time Type:Full timeEmployee Group:StaffJob Category:Financial Planning and ReportingEmployment Type:TemporaryDepartment:Vice-President, Administration and Finance - Risk Management and ComplianceHiring Range:$73,695.42 - $92,119.28Posting Information:This posting is for an existing vacancy.TERM: 12 monthsThis position is being offered as a Secondment or contract opportunity.The internal posting deadline for this position is October 16, 2026, at 11:59PM.Job Description:Primary PurposeThe Financial Controls and Communications Analyst is accountable for the execution of activities relating to the review of transactions and processes to ensure controls are adequate, effective, and in compliance with published guidelines and procedures. The role also assists in the documentation, testing and communication of financial policies and procedures to ensure they are well understood and followed.Key AccountabilitiesDesign and execute internal control reviewsDocument business processes and internal controls within financial business cycles, identifying control gaps, and working with the financial/business cycle stream leads (or their delegates) to address themAnalyze specific financial data to help identify trends or patterns that could be indicative of fraudulent activitiesParticipate in designing a review plan and testing templates for new test items identifiedConduct post-reviews of financial transactions (i.e., bank deposits, P-Card, reimbursement claims, etc.) to ensure processes are followed, identify control improvements, and evaluate compliance with internal policies and procedures and with external statutes and regulationsProduce accurate, timely, and complete analysis and reports related to the results of internal control reviews completedAssist in the preparation of review findings and recommendations for communication to the University communitySupport the development and delivery of communications and trainingAssist in preparation and distribution of various communications throughout the year, including year-end memos and instructions, systems upgrade information, new initiatives and developments and other relevant informationUpdate and develop content for the Finance WCMS website(s) and Confluence wikiAssess inventory of financial information currently available to the University community (website/SharePoint/Confluence/other), develop a schedule for refreshing such guidance on a periodic basis, and assist in updating Finance-related materials according to the scheduleIn collaboration with the functional areas within Finance, participate in developing manuals and training materials for financial processes and systemsProvide advice, training and direction on policies, controls, and best practicesKeep current on changes in accounting, best business practices, as well as government and University policies and procedures, to apply sound professional judgment and recommend improvementsParticipate in evaluating business and accounting issues which requires identifying problems, researching alternatives, preparing analysis, and making recommendationsReview financial business practices and processes, including segregation of duties and security access, recommending improvements, as requiredAssist in development and/or delivery of training sessions for University staff and faculty on financial and business practicesIn collaboration with the functional areas within Finance, assist in developing or updating manuals and training materials for financial processes and systemsOtherParticipate in system upgrade and testing project teamsParticipate in and support other department projects and complete other assignments as requiredProvide backup to other Finance functions as requiredDevelop productive, collaborative working relationships with colleaguesContribute to a culture of continuous improvement in terms of efficiencies and leveraging financial systems capabilities and new technologiesRequired QualificationsEducationUniversity undergraduate degree preferably in Accounting, Business or FinanceChartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation from CPA Canada is an assetExperienceMinimum 3 years’ experience in an accounting/finance-related environmentPrevious experience with a significant financial system/ERP system is preferredBroad range of auditing experience, with preference for experience in higher education, public sector, or other not-for-profit environmentsExperience in developing/documenting/evaluating internal controls preferredExperience in developing and/or presenting training material is considered an assetKnowledge/Skills/AbilitiesDemonstrated ability to prioritize and manage concurrent deadlines accurately and efficientlyStrong analytical, technical and problem-solving skillsExceptional attention to detail and time management skillsAdvanced interpersonal, communication and organizational skillsComfortable explaining accounting information, policies and procedures to different client groupsIn-depth understanding of generally accepted accounting principles and their application to not-for profit organizationsWorks independently with a strong work ethicWorks well in team settingsStrong computer skills including advanced Microsoft tools (i.e., Excel, Teams, and SharePoint)Working knowledge of Unit4 Business World would be an assetHigh degree of discretion, judgement, sensitivity, tact, and diplomacyEquity StatementThe University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is coordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuk (Inuit), Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.Positions are open to qualified candidates who are legally entitled to work in Canada.The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources at [e-mail] or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.