The Walrus provokes new thinking and sparks conversation on matters vital to Canadians. As a registered charity, we publish independent fact-based journalism and produce national ideas-focused events. The Walrus and its strong community of supporters are invested in the idea that a healthy society relies on informed citizens.
POSITIONS WE ARE CURRENTLY HIRING FOR:
- Director of Finance (December 1 deadline)
Director of Finance
The Walrus is seeking to fill an upcoming vacancy in a senior financial position, due to a recent retirement. The Director of Finance is the senior financial manager in the organization. The position is a key leadership role within The Walrus, responsible for overseeing and performing financial operations, HR administration, information systems management, contract and supply negotiations, and general operations management. This role offers a dynamic, multifaceted opportunity to influence organizational growth and sustainability and play a central role in financial strategy, operational efficiency, and team development. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Finance will work closely with leaders across departments and oversee the Office Operations Manager, Director of Audience Engagement, and an independent contractor for magazine production. The management role has a “seat at the table,” providing vital support in shaping the future of The Walrus and Canadian journalism.Responsibilities
Financial Leadership and Oversight
- Perform and monitor all financial activities of the organization, including full cycle accounting, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strategic alignment.
- Oversee budget planning, management, and forecasting, using data analysis to provide insights on financial and business trends.
- Prepare monthly and annual financial statements, ensuring they meet reporting standards and support decision-making.
- Manage cash flow and make recommendations to optimize financial resources.
- Perform payroll processing (ADP self-service model) and ensure timely payments and reporting adherence to all regulatory requirements.
- Annually prepare all documentation for and manage all interaction with the company’s external auditors to verify financial data accuracy and compliance with current laws and regulations.
- Participate in Board of Directors’ meetings six times a year, reporting and explaining financial performance to the board’s Finance and Audit Committee.
- Regularly assess company spending, working to reduce costs and maximize efficiencies where possible.
- Perform all regulatory reporting to government entities and provide input to all government funding applications.
Human Resources Operations
- Lead front-facing HR functions, including preparing offer letters and termination packages and managing employee records.
- Oversee back-end HR administration, including employee onboarding, group benefits administration, and policy development.
- Serve as a trusted adviser for HR matters, handling sensitive personnel issues with discretion and independence.
Operations Management
- Oversee IT infrastructure and equipment procurement to ensure smooth and secure organizational operations.
- Prepare and/or review contracts to support organizational partnerships and vendor relationships.
- Make informed, strategic decisions on IT-related matters, coordinating with external vendors or consultants as needed.
- Manage all aspects of the donation tax receipting process, ensuring compliance with all rules and regulations outlined by the Charities Directorate of Canada and the Canada Revenue Agency.
Qualifications and Experience
- Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business management, finance, accounting, or a related field; CPA designation preferred.
- Extensive experience in finance, with demonstrated expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Proficiency in the Microsoft suite and accounting business software (QuickBooks).
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial data analysis, and regulatory compliance.
- Proven experience in HR management, with a solid understanding of employment laws and best practices.
- Familiarity with IT and operations management, including vendor management and contract negotiations.
