Job Description

Join the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) and be part of a community-driven organization making a meaningful impact in the lives of Urban Indigenous people. We are currently seeking a passionate, highly organized, and self-motivated individual to join our team and help drive positive change.

About Us

The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society has over 60 years of experience in developing and delivering culturally centred programs and services to urban Indigenous peoples in Vancouver.

The VAFCS works in partnership with community stakeholders in developing, building, and operating a small portfolio of shelters and affordable housing in addition to our community programs, services, and social enterprises.

Position Summary

The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) is seeking an experienced Accounting Controller to lead financial operations and ensure the integrity of the organization's accounting practices. Reporting to Executive Management and supervising a team of three, this role is responsible for overseeing financial operations, developing policies and procedures, managing budgets and audits, ensuring compliance with GAAP and ASNPO, and providing strategic financial analysis to support organizational decision-making.

Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

Oversee monthly financial close processes for programs, services, housing, and social enterprises, including journal entries, reconciliations, and reporting.

Prepare timely financial statements, management reports, and cash flow projections.

Develop and manage annual budgets and forecasts in collaboration with program and housing managers.

Monitor and report on budget variances, resource allocation, and financial performance.

Manage annual audits, tax filings, payroll functions, rent collection, and petty cash.

Policy, Controls & Cost Management

Develop and implement accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud.

Streamline financial processes and recommend system improvements.

Monitor project costs and overheads, working with building managers to ensure compliance and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Compliance & Strategic Initiatives

Ensure adherence to GAAP, ASNPO, and regulatory requirements.

Provide financial insights and analysis to support organizational strategy.

Lead strategic projects such as system upgrades and technology improvements.

Collaborate with auditors, directors, and management to align financial practices with organizational objectives.

Technology & Systems

Lead planning and implementation of ERP, HRM, and accounting system upgrades.

Drive adoption of technology solutions that enhance financial reporting and operational efficiency.

Team Leadership

Provide leadership, coaching, and development support to accounting staff.

Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

CPA and bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related area.

Minimum 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, including 2+ years in financial leadership.

Experience with non-profit financial management, funder reporting, and audit coordination.

Strong knowledge of GAAP, ASNPO, and regulatory compliance.

Proficiency in Sage, NetSuite, Office 365, Excel, and data analytics.

Proven ability to strengthen internal controls and improve financial systems.

Excellent leadership, communication, and analytical skills.

Ability to translate financial information for non-financial audiences.

Knowledge of Indigenous communities and socio-historical contexts preferred.

Experience with property management, social enterprises, and unionized environments is an asset.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: From $27.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 - 37.5 per week

Application question(s):

Ability to lead a team Ability to translate financial information for non-financial audiences
Education:

Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:

progressive accounting: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person