Director of Finance

Job No: 140778
Location: Port Hardy, BC

  • Join one of the most progressive First Nations community in the country
  • Receive $85-130K annual salary plus full benefits
  • Help us achieve our vision and goals while preserving our culture

About Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw First Nation

The Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw First Nation is located adjacent to the community of Port Hardy, British Columbia and on the Tsulquate reserve. Our residents stay true to their traditional lifestyle and still participate in activities including hunting and fishing.

We are a small, semi-rural community of 1,100, with about 56% of members living as on-reserve community members. The Tsulquate Reserve, where most of us live, is adjacent to the town of Port Hardy on the North-eastern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. 

Prior to 1964, the Gwasala people and the Nakwaxda people lived as two separate tribes. While many of our practices were similar, we spoke different dialects and each tribe had our own distinct culture. In 1964 we were amalgamated with each other and relocated to the Tsulquate Reserve.

Currently, the Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw First Nation members are working tirelessly in all aspects of community improvement, including long term economic plans, social development, advancement in education, protection of our lands, and preservation of our language and culture.

To read more about our history, vision, and long term community goals, please visit our website.

About the Opportunity

Currently, the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation is looking for a Director of Finance based in Port Hardy, British Columbia

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director of Finance will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the financial administration systems of Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation to ensure all policies and procedures are operating effectively.

Your main responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

  • Ensuring that operations are conducted under the Nation's policies, regulations, and legislations
  • Evaluating the financial administration systems and recommend improvements
  • Administering and maintaining all charts of accounts
  • Preparing the draft annual budgets
  • Coordinating and providing guidance for financial planning, including multi-year financial plans
  • Preparing and supervising monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
  • Interpreting financial information and recommend further courses of action
  • Monitoring compliance with all applicable policies and procedures
  • Safeguarding assets and mitigating risks 
  • Monitoring financial performance and develop metrics / projections
  • Coordinating with various other departments to discuss future plans
  • Recruiting, training, and managing team members

About You

To qualify, you will need a CPA designation, as well as a degree or diploma in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Commerce, Accounting, or any related field. An MBA and experience working in First Nation Finance would be considered an asset. 

Experience leading a team in finance in any capacity, as well as strong coaching skills, will be required for the role.

Our ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of and respect for Indigenous culture, and a knowledge and understanding of AANDC policies and procedures. 

In addition, it is essential that you have advanced proficiency with accounting and financial software programs.

Lastly, candidates with excellent communication skills and outstanding attention to details will thrive in this role.

About the Benefits

As recognition for all your hard work and determination, you can look forward to $85-130K annual salary based on skills and experience, plus the following:

  • Extended health and dental benefits package
  • 3 weeks vacation to start plus 2 weeks of holiday break
  • Pension
  • Relocation assistance of up to 3 months

At Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw Nation, you will find a community that is looking to the future via economic development, while maintaining a traditional lifestyle and honouring the values of our people.  

If you share our values and have the skills necessary to bring success to the role, then we invite you to apply today!

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Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Nation - At A Glance

“We are one with the land and sea we own,” states the guiding principle of Oweetna-kula, a concept that has directed GWA’SALA-’NAKWAXDA’XW NATIONS’ relationship to their territories since time immemorial. When a forced relocation removed the Nations from their homelands in 1964, that sacred connection was broken. Decades later, the Nations arranged conservation financing to create a Guardian Watchmen program and reconnect to their territories. Today, the Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw Guardians play an integral role in stewarding the natural and cultural resources of their lands and waters while supporting community members to revive relationships with their homelands.