Assistant Director, Finance INTERNAL EMPLOYEES ONLY

Assembly of First Nations • Ottawa or Akwesasne, Ontario

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Director, Finance, will play a critical role in leading AFN’s financial operations by overseeing budgets, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting financial reporting for senior leadership, and strengthening internal controls to promote accuracy, transparency, and long‑term organizational sustainability. This role will lead to the development of accurate financial reporting, support multi‑year planning, and drive continuous improvement in financial systems and processes. Through strong leadership and collaboration, the Assistant Director, Finance helps ensure that AFN’s financial resources are managed responsibly, ethically, and aligned with organizational priorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field
• Minimum 3–5 years of progressive experience in financial management, accounting, budgeting, and reporting, preferably within a non‑profit or Indigenous‑focused environment.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and relevant federal and provincial legislation affecting non‑profits and charities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage, mentor, and develop staff from diverse backgrounds, fostering a supportive and high‑performance work environment.
• Ability to build strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including funders, auditors, financial institutions, and senior leadership.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively across teams and departments to support organizational goals.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with sound judgment in interpreting financial data and supporting strategic decision‑
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and accessible.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and accountability in managing sensitive financial information.

Nice To Haves

• CPA designation or active pursuit of a CPA is an asset.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and an understanding of their cultural, political, and policy contexts is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with federal and provincial legislation, regulations, financial policies and procedures, and reporting requirements affecting the financial operations of the AFN.
• Support the Director of Finance in the preparation and presentation of financial statements, reports, and analyses to the VPOA, Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and senior management team.
• Manage the finance team to achieve AFN’s financial goals and objectives. Manage, mentor, and develop finance staff, fostering a high‑performance and growth‑oriented team culture.
• Lead the preparation and administration of annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring alignment with AFN’s strategic plans.
• Monitor financial operations, including cash flow, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and audits, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Provide guidance and support on financial planning, forecasting, and project-specific evaluations, ensuring alignment with budget and operational performance.
• Continuously review, refine, and implement operational best practices in financial management, accounting procedures, and internal controls.
• Work closely with HR, IT, Payroll, and other sectors to ensure coordinated financial operations.
• Assist the Director of Finance in strengthening financial reporting to ensure clear, accurate, and timely information is provided to the CEO, Management Committee, and other key stakeholders.
• Build effective relationships with directors, senior leadership, government partners, and external stakeholders.
• Support financial requirements for proposals, funding agreements, contracts, and organizational initiatives.
• Anticipate and respond to operational issues, manage vendor relationships, and ensure timely communication across AFN.
• Oversee the preparation and accuracy of briefing notes, reports, letters, and other sector materials.

Benefits

• Employer-Paid Health Benefit Premiums – Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with premiums fully paid by AFN.
• Generous Pension Matching – A competitive pension plan with significant employer contributions to help you build your future.
• Ample Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days – Generous vacation entitlements, paid sick leave, and personal days, plus additional non-legislative time off throughout the year.
• Professional Development Support – Coverage for courses, certifications, and training to help you grow your skills and advance your career.
• Wellness Funds – Annual funds you can use towards fitness, mental health supports, or other wellness-related expenses.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager