Controller

Controller 
Wagmatcook First Nation, NS 
Reference # HL - WFN - 10026 

Wagmatcook (Waq-mit-kuk) is one the five Mi’kmaq First Nations located in Cape Breton (Unama’ki). Wagmatcook is the oldest permanent settlement of the Mi’kmaq Nation in Nova Scotia and is situated adjacent to the Bras d’Or Lakes and the Cape Breton highlands. Wagmatcook is a bilingual community with Mi’kmaq and English used interchangeably by the Chief and Council and most of the community’s public institutions. Mi’kmaq language, culture and traditions are an integral part of the community. 

We are pleased to be partnered with them to bring a Controller to their team. The Controller has senior financial authority under the Financial Administration Law (“FAL”) and is responsible for providing advanced accounting, financial analysis, and financial reporting services to support sound financial management and informed decision making across the organization. Reporting directly to the CFO, the role plays a critical advisory function by ensuring accurate financial records, compliance with applicable legislation and regulations, integrity of financial information and operating within Wagmatcook’s FAL. 

Wagmatcook First Nation operates multiple own-source revenue businesses. Identifying own-source revenue acquisition opportunities will be a significant responsibility of the Controller. Supporting the objective of building onto current own-source revenue businesses currently in operation within Wagmatcook First Nation, which includes, aviation entities, commercial fisheries, crab processing facility, Culture & Heritage Centre, CleanWave Restaurant, Wagmatcook Gas Bar & Retail Store. 

This position contributes to organizational sustainability by supporting budgeting, forecasting, audits, and financial controls, while aligning financial practices with organizational priorities, accountability requirements, and Indigenous governance principles. The Controller serves as a trusted professional resource to leadership and supports continuous improvement in financial systems and practices. 

Key responsibilities, include but are not limited to: 

Accounting and Financial Reporting 

• Ensure that monthly, quarterly and annual statements are prepared, reviewed by the Finance and Audit Committee, and presented to Council for approval. 
• Prepare Special Purpose Reports required under own-source revenue activities and corporate partnerships. 
• Coordinate the preparation of audit schedules and financial statements for external auditors, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. 

Financial Analysis and Advice 

• Prepare annual budgets, forecasts, and variance analysis reports including, assisting Program Managers with the preparation of core, program and project budgets. 
• Monitor cash flow, investments, and financial performance indicators. 
• Collaborate with Council, senior management, and external consultants to develop long-term financial strategies, capital investment plans, and funding proposals to support community development initiatives and capital projects. 
• Oversee, maintain, monitor, review, verify, and approve day-to-day financial administration. 

Compliance and Risk Management. 

• Ensure the financial administration systems; developing, implementing and ensuring effective operation of policies, procedures and internal controls. 
• Monitor compliance with all contracts, funding and partnership agreements entered into by Wagmatcook First Nation. 
• Coordinate annual audits and liaise with external auditors. 

Leadership and Team Management 

• Foster professional development and maintain a high level of productivity and morale within the Finance Department. 

Professional Development 

• Attend workshops, career development and continuing education opportunities to maintain an up-to-date working knowledge of professional practices. 

The ideal candidate will possess:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Knowledge of First Nation governance, culture and traditions, ability to speak Mi’kmaq considered an asset. 
• Proficiency in financial analysis, forecasting, and modeling techniques, with strong analytical skills and attention to detail in reviewing financial data and identifying trends or anomalies. 
• Proficiency in financial software applications, including QuickBooks and Microsoft Office. 
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to articulate financial concepts and present complex information in a clear and concise manner to diverse audiences. 
• Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and empower staff, foster collaboration, and cultivate a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. 
• Commitment to integrity, ethical conduct, and confidentiality in handling sensitive financial information and managing fiduciary responsibilities for the First Nation. 

Education and Experience 

• CPA designation is preferred. 
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field required.  
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience in financial management, accounting, or auditing, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role preferred. 

This is a great opportunity for an experienced accounting professional to join a busy and dynamic team. Reach out to us for more details.  

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, Senior 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.