Director of Finance and Administration

Director of Finance and Administration    
Halifax, NS
Reference # HL-SHS-9010


Our client, Sacred Heart School of Halifax, has been a top independent school in Atlantic Canada, and one of Nova Scotia’s only Catholic schools, Sacred Heart School of Halifax has been teaching the whole child — mind, body, and spirit — for over 176 years. Their iconic campus in the heart of Halifax offers a diamond model of education: co-ed in JP-Grade 6, single-gender in Grades 7-9, and co-ed in Grades 10-12. With a network of schools around the world, a rich and proud history, and a strong and unique set of core values, they offer not just an education but an experience that is unparalleled in this region. Sacred Heart School of Halifax is proudly accredited by Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) and the Sacred Heart Commission on Goals (SHCOG). We are excited to partner with them looking to bring a dynamic and strategic Director of Finance and Administration to their team in Halifax. 


Reporting to the Head of the School, the successful candidate will be responsible for a full range of key financial and operational activities, including overseeing the School’s budget, operations, and human resources. This position is part of the School’s Leadership Team and is responsible for supervising five direct reports.


Responsibilities will include:
 

• Establish and oversee an effective budgeting process (operations, capital projects, annual tuition increases, financial aid budget, and salary plan increments) in consultation with the Leadership Team and the Board.
• Prepare all financial reports and statements, including those related to the budget, investments, and capital projects.
• Make presentations to the Head of School, Board, and committees as appropriate, and keep the Head of School and the Board informed as to the financial condition of the School.
• Guide the School’s day-to-day operations and financial health through close collaboration with the finance and facilities committees of the Board and the Leadership Team.
• Coordinate, prepare, and execute the annual year-end audit in partnership with an external auditor.
• Manage the business office and oversee all activities related to accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, employee benefit administration, general ledger, and reception.
• Ensure the preparation of all year-end receipts, such as charitable donation receipts, childcare non-instructional time tax receipts, and religious education donation receipts.
• Develop, review, and ensure adherence to financial and operational policies and procedures.
• Administer the employee salary and benefits programs.
• Develop organizational strategy and objectives relating to the School’s human resource functions.
• Oversee human resources processes like hiring, onboarding, time-off, leaves, performance management, discipline, and employee surveys.
• Support and counsel leaders in managing employee relations matters, consult with legal counsel as appropriate, and provide mediation when necessary.
• Provide meaningful business/performance indicators to assist the Leadership Team in making strategic decisions.
• Work with the Head of School, Leadership Team, and the Board of Governors to develop and execute both short and long-range financial plans.
• Work with the Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations and the Leadership Team on philanthropic needs to ensure the School’s financial health.
• Manage the employees in the business office and provide guidance, coaching, and professional growth.
• Other related financial, HR, and administrative duties as required. 

The ideal candidate will possess:
 

• CPA designation.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration or related field. 
• 5+ years of experience in a similar financial management role. 
• Strong knowledge of all aspects of accounting and financial management. 
• Experience leading and coaching teams. 
• Previous not-for-profit experience is a strong asset, as is experience in an educational setting.
• Clear communication style – ability to present financial information to the School’s Leadership Team, Board, and employees, including those with limited financial knowledge.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a small office setting.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a positive and collaborative approach to work.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational capabilities.
• Microsoft Office and Google Suite proficiency. Blackboard experience is an asset.

To express interest in this opportunity please apply online by clicking “Apply Now” below:
For more information about this exciting opportunity please contact Heather Labucki, Partner, or Sara Morey, Consultant, at smorey@kbrs.ca  If you require accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please let Sara Morey know.


Meridia Recruitment Solutions connects leading organizations with top talent by building strong relationships and creating ideal matches with candidates because we are only successful when you are. We appreciate your interest in this opportunity. 


To learn more about Meridia Recruitment Solutions, our job opportunities, and career advice we invite you to explore our site and subscribe for career alerts.