Director, Financial Services

Acadia University acknowledges that we are in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq. This territory is covered by the “Treaties of Peace and Friendship” which the Mi’kmaq, Wəlastəkwiyik (Maliseet), and Passamaquoddy Peoples first signed with the British Crown in 1726. The treaties did not deal with surrender of lands and resources but in fact recognized Mi’kmaq and Wəlastəkwiyik (Maliseet) title and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship between nations. Acknowledging the land that we are on, means that we are working towards decolonization across campus.

Founded in 1838, Acadia University is one of the oldest and most respected universities in Canada known for providing a premium high quality, high engagement, primarily undergraduate student experience. Acadia is just a one-hour drive from Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is an integral part of the quintessential college town of Wolfville, overlooking the Annapolis Valley and the Bay of Fundy. With a total enrollment of almost 4,000, Acadia attracts students from every province and territory and more than 60 countries to take advantage of strong academic programs, a curriculum that encourages personal development, and collaborative learning experiences led by award-winning professors. As a member of the Maple League of universities, Acadia is committed to the delivery of a high quality, 21st century liberal education.

Acadia is seeking a Director, Financial Services (“Director”) to provide leadership over general accounting, research accounting, and student accounts.  The new Director will be a key contributor to the Financial Services team for Acadia University.

Reporting to the Associate Vice President Finance and Treasurer, the Director is a key member of Acadia’s Finance Team and is directly responsible for providing effective leadership to the Financial Services team.  The Director will be responsible for the management and development of a team that encompasses both unionized and non-unionized roles. Departments reporting to the Director include Accounting Services (including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable), Student Accounts, and Research Accounting.

The Director will also work closely with the Manager, Budgeting and Reporting to facilitate management reporting, internal and external financial reporting, and financial systems management.   The Director is responsible for identifying and implementing improvements in business practices which enhance internal controls, create operational efficiencies, and improve service delivery.

As the ideal candidate, you are a seasoned finance leader with a demonstrable track record of success in leading finance/accounting teams.   Your strong accounting acumen is matched by your people management and motivational abilities.  You have a growth-oriented mindset and are someone who stays even keeled in stressful situations.  You take initiative, lead by example and hold yourself to a high standard.  You enjoy finding efficiencies and bring out the best in your team and your department.

To apply or explore this exceptional leadership opportunity with Acadia University, please submit a resume along with a cover letter in confidence to Marc Magraken (marc@griffithgroup.ca) and/or Tracey Trimble (tracey@griffithgroup.ca).

Acadia University is strongly committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, Black and African Nova Scotians, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons living with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ community members, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

As part of your application, you will be invited to complete a brief Employment Equity Voluntary Self-Identification Form. This form is voluntary.

Acadia University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact Marc Magraken (marc@griffithgroup.ca).

Please be advised that only those invited for an interview will be contacted. The University reserves the right not to fill this position.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.