Lead, Process Improvement - Finance Operations

Livingston International; Toronto; On-site; CAD 61,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

Livingston International in Toronto is seeking a Lead, Process Improvement – Finance Operations to drive excellence across Finance Operations. You will lead structured process improvements, oversee finance applications and KPIs, and advance automation and controls.

Working with Finance and Operations leaders, you will ensure accurate financial transactions, optimized systems, and evolving service levels. The ideal candidate is analytical, metrics-driven, and able to translate insights into

Qualifications

• 5 years of related experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting required.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• Experience with finance systems and data governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead finance process improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.
• Map processes, redesign workflows, and identify root causes to improve efficiency.
• Develop, implement, and standardize policies and SOPs for AP and related functions.
• Identify automation opportunities and implement lightweight digital solutions.
• Oversee finance applications, governance, and access controls.
• Provide actionable insights and executive-ready recommendations to leadership.

Skills

Process improvement

Lean Six Sigma

Data analysis

KPI reporting

Financial systems

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Finance or Accounting

Tools

Excel VBA

Power Automate

SQL

Power BI

Job description

Lead, Process Improvement – Finance Operations

Join Livingston and grow your career in the constantly changing world of international trade. Livingston is a market leader offering customs brokerage, international trade consulting, compliance and freight forwarding services around the world. Livingston has over 3,000 employees at more than 90 key border crossings, sea ports, airports and other strategic locations in North America, Europe and Asia.

Our fast-paced and collaborative environment offers you the opportunity to work with leaders in the industry, receive recognition for achievements and develop your expertise in the complex and evolving world of trade. Learn how you can make an impact at Livingston.

Job Summary

The Lead, Process Improvement – Finance Operations is responsible for driving operational excellence across Finance Operations functions. Reporting to the Director, Finance Operations, this role leads structured process improvement initiatives, oversees finance applications and KPIs, strengthens policy and control frameworks, and advances automation and digital enablement initiatives.

This position partners closely with Finance and Operations leaders to ensure financial transactions are executed accurately and efficiently, reporting requirements are met, finance systems are optimized, and service levels continuously improve. The role requires a highly analytical, metrics-driven leader with strong business acumen and the ability to translate process insights into measurable operational outcomes.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement

• Lead and participate in Finance Process Improvement initiatives using structured methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, or similar frameworks).
• Conduct process mapping, workflow redesign, root cause analysis, and value stream assessments to improve efficiency, quality, and service delivery.
• Develop, implement, and standardize policies, SOPs, SLAs, and operational standards for Accounts Payable, Duty Audit, and related finance functions.
• Identify automation opportunities and implement lightweight digital solutions (e.g., Power Automate, VBA, reporting tools, AI-enabled solutions).
• Align finance systems and technology platforms to support critical business processes and reporting requirements.
• Reinforce adherence to company policies, internal controls, and industry best practices.

Systems Oversight & Data Integrity

• Oversee finance applications and ensure effective system setup, governance, and access controls.
• Review and approve system access for Finance Operations staff in accordance with internal control requirements.
• Verify integrity and accuracy of financial data within accounting systems.
• Investigate assigned variance, identify discrepancies, and implement corrective solutions.

Performance Management & Analytics

• Establish and monitor KPIs, service levels, quality standards, and internal controls across Finance Operations.
• Drive a metrics-based culture focused on continuous improvement and service excellence.
• Analyze large datasets to identify performance trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.
• Provide actionable insights and executive-ready recommendations to Finance and Operations leadership.

Issue Resolution & Stakeholder Partnership

• Serve as the primary escalation point for internal and external audits and operational finance applications.
• Ensure timely resolution of issues through strong cross-functional collaboration.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with internal stakeholders, clients, and external partners.
• Support leadership in meeting operational and strategic objectives.

Team Support & Coaching

• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance operations team, including hiring, training, and performance evaluations.
• Train and coach staff on analysis skills, financial applications, and departmental policies and procedures
• Assists team with the troubleshooting and resolution of issues or problems, when necessary
• Promote a culture that emphasizes both individual accountability and a commitment to ongoing learning and development.

Knowledge & Skills

To perform this job successfully, the person must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable a person with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Strong working knowledge of lightweight automation and prototyping tools (e.g., Excel VBA, Power Automate, SQL/Power BI, scripting, agentic AI).
• Map processes, define SOPs, monitor SLAs, analyze root causes; drive continuous improvement and automation
• Practical experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies, applied in an agile and outcome-focused manner.
• Strong understanding of internal controls, audit requirements, and financial data governance.
• Demonstrated success partnering with business and finance leaders to meet operational and strategic goals.
• Strong business acumen, advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets and drive evidence-based decisions.
• Ability to navigate financial and operations applications; research variances and identify root causes of discrepancies
• Proven ability to meet tight timelines in an environment with competing priorities
• Be proactive and energetic in the work situation, seeking to get things done and able to multi-task
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Coaching and development skills
• Advanced proficiency in the use of Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excess, Access and PowerPoint). Experience with advanced data / analytical software would be an asset.

Work Experience – Minimum Required

5 years of related experience

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelors Degree or equivalent in Finance or Accounting

COMPETENCIES

At Livingston, we are committed to fostering a flexible, growth-oriented environment where you can thrive. Our culture is built on respect, recognition, and collaboration, and we empower our team with trusted expertise, continuous learning opportunities, and long-term support. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a transparent pay philosophy aligned with market data and job-related factors.

Base salary is one component of our total rewards package which also includes incentive opportunities, benefits, and professional development. Salary ranges are established by location and reflect relevant factors such as skills, experience, and market conditions. The good-faith salary range for this position is $60,515 - $91,000 CAD. Actual compensation will be determined based on these factors and may vary accordingly.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Livingston

We are proud to be an inclusive employer and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We know some candidates, especially women and people of color, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply.

Livingston is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation, please advise when submitting your application.

Job Type: Full Time

Location: ON Toronto - CN030