Operations and Finance Manager

Human Rights Watch•Toronto, ON

5h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Financial Operations team of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking applicants for the position of Operations & Finance Manager to ensure the smooth, efficient, and compliant running of HRW's Canada office. This is a broad, hands-on role with responsibility for the office's finance function, alongside HR administration, compliance, governance, and office operations. The successful candidate will be comfortable wearing multiple hats in a lean office environment, taking ownership of their work, working independently, and managing competing priorities with strong attention to detail. This full-time position is based in Toronto, Canada and reports to the Senior Canada City Director, Development and Outreach Department, based in Toronto, with functional day to day supervision from the Associate Director of Financial Operations, based in London, United Kingdom. The successful candidate may have the option to work remotely but will be expected to work from the Toronto office at least 3-4 days a week. We aim to be as flexible and supportive as possible in both the recruitment and onboarding of this position.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification/training in finance, accounting, business administration, nonprofit management, human resources, or a related field is required.
A minimum of five (5) years of operations, finance, or administrative experience, preferably in a global organization, is required.
Experience with bookkeeping and day-to-day accounting processes is required.
Experience with accounting and expense management software, such as NetSuite and SAP Concur, is required.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including advanced Excel skills for financial analysis and reporting is required.
Demonstrated ability to be a self-starter, proactive, and able to work independently with minimal supervision is required.
Strong project management skills, including the ability to develop and manage workplans, track and monitor tasks and deadlines, and effectively self-manage tasks and workflow are required.
Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to work accurately under pressure, pay close attention to detail and meet deadlines is required.
Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and present information accurately to a range of stakeholders including Canadian Board, and relay financial information in a clear and concise manner is required.
Ability to handle confidential information discreetly and maintain confidentiality at all times is required.
Applicants for this position must possess valid work authorization for Canada.

Nice To Haves

A professional designation in accounting or bookkeeping is highly desirable.
Experience with Canadian charity regulations and Canadian tax requirements is highly desirable.
Experience in human resources and in the nonprofit sector is highly desirable.
Experience supporting charity Boards and working with external bodies, including auditors, tax authorities, and other official bodies, is highly desirable.
Experience supporting charities with CRA, requirements,
Relevant professional accounting qualifications are desirable.

Responsibilities

Act as the local Finance representative and assist with the implementation of Finance policies. Ensure compliance with CRA financial regulations.
Manage bank accounts and cash flows for Toronto;
Prepare, plan, and monitor the Toronto office budget;
Process and record financial transactions, including payroll, pensions, monthly bill payments, expense reimbursements, and disbursements;
Run internal and external financial reports and update reports, project schedules, and operating budgets;
Plan, prepare, and coordinate with relevant stakeholders the annual external audit process;
Work with financial service vendors, such as auditors, accountants, and governmental tax offices;
Prepare accounts analysis, soft closures, quarterly closes, and year-end closes;
Manage corporate tax duties, including federal and provincial reporting, tax payments, and refunds;
Regularly update fixed assets inventory;
In coordination with the Development Director and Finance Department, prepare inter-company contracts, transfers, payment schedules, and administrative documentation.
Process, track, and file inter-company and project payments; and
Produce project financial reports and funds analysis.
Liaise with General Counsel on issues in relation to the Canadian legal, charitable status, registrations, and related requirements;
Ensure compliance with local laws, and liaise with general counsel on issues related to corporate and governance laws, labor laws, charity, health and safety laws;
Plan, organize, and coordinate Board meetings, prepare and distribute all necessary documents, take minutes, and carry out other administrative duties related to Board coordination; and
Ensure all entity information is updated on HRW’s entities database.
Act as the local HR representative and assist with the implementation of HR policies locally;
Respond to staff on general HR queries;
Maintain a good understanding and working knowledge of and compliance with local employment laws;
Keep up to date with local HR legislations and practices;
Assist with the recruitment, on-boarding, and departure of local staff, fellows, consultants, and interns;
Administer and process local employee payroll, pensions, health benefits, and insurance;
Assist with updating the local Employee handbook with changes in local laws;
Liaise with local government offices, insurance and pension providers, and other HR service providers;
Research and assist with immigration, visas, and relocation of employees; and
Maintain a unified filing system and attendance management database.
Maintain the smooth and effective functioning of the office;
Handle general office maintenance and facilities issues;
Liaise with the landlord on issues relating to the premises;
Engage suppliers and providers and negotiate commercial and services contracts in a cost-effective manner;
Oversee office moves, configuration, and space sourcing;
Answer general post, email, and telephone inquiries;
Coordinate office social events and related logistics;
Maintain office security and protocols and manage local office procedures; and
Ensure office safety standards are in compliance with local regulations.
Liaise with IT/helpdesk to troubleshoot computer issues and requirements;
Liaise with IT and internet provider to troubleshoot internet and connectivity problems;
Carry out other duties as necessary.