Accounting Manager - Area F (Columbia Lake/Windermere Lake) - Akisqnuk First Nation

Description

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting operations of ʔakisqnuk First Nation and ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information. This role supports the Director of Finance and the CFO in financial planning, control, reporting, reconciliation, and performance measurement. The Accounting Manager provides leadership within the accounting function, ensures compliance with applicable legislation and policies, and produces reliable financial reporting to support informed, knowledge-based decision-making and forecasting.

ʔakisqnuk First Nation (ʔAFN) is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. ʔAFN exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our own roles and departments, the ʔAFN Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan "Our Thinking" and continue to progress and move our community forward.

Note: This position is full-time with a set weekly schedule (35 hrs/week, Monday - Friday) working onsite at AFN's health center.

Major Position Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting and Reconciliation

• Oversee and complete bank, general ledger, and investment reconciliations in accordance with AFN policies and procedures.
• Review and reconcile general ledger accounts, bank statements, and supporting documentation for operational, legal, and investment purposes.
• Prepare and review accurate weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and consolidated financial statements.
• Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end close processes, including accruals and account reconciliations.
• Investigate variances and irregularities, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
• Coordinate and support internal and external audits, ensuring appropriate documentation and resolution of findings.
• Collaborate with internal departments to resolve accounting issues and ensure complete and accurate financial reporting.
• Resolve discrepancies with vendors and internal stakeholders related to invoicing, approvals, and payments.

Accounting Operations and Compliance

• Oversee the preparation, review, approval, and posting of journal entries.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable public sector accounting standards.
• Monitor daily banking activities and ensure timely completion and review of bank reconciliations.
• Prepare and file GST returns specific to the public sector, as well as other statutory filings.
• Ensure accurate and timely government remittances, including GST, WCB, and payroll-related filings.
• Develop, implement, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and consistency.
• Ensure compliance with federal, provincial, and local tax regulations and reporting requirements.
• Coordinate with external auditors and act as a key point of contact during the annual audit.
• Safeguard organizational assets through effective internal controls and fraud prevention measures.

Financial Planning and Analysis

• Lead and participate in the annual budgeting and year-end financial planning processes.
• Analyze financial results and provide clear, actionable insights to the Director of Finance, CFO, and leadership team.
• Prepare forecasts, projections, and cash flow analyses to support operational and strategic planning.
• Support Directors in developing annual budgets and forecasts, including variance analysis and reporting.
• Monitor key performance indicators and provide regular reporting on trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Research and prepare financial and operational analyses to support cost-effective administration.

Leadership, Policy Development and Organizational Support

• Provide functional leadership and guidance within the accounting function, including reviewing work and supporting skill development.
• Maintain and oversee accounting systems, ensuring updates, data integrity, and appropriate user access.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and ongoing review of Finance Policies and Procedures for AFN and related entities.
• Prepare detailed working papers and documentation for annual audits and funding reviews.
• Ensure the security, confidentiality, and appropriate use of financial data.
• Ensure reporting requirements for federal, provincial, and contribution agreements are met.
• Provide financial information, guidance, and training to other departments to support compliance with financial policies.
• Monitor cash management, financial records, and quality assurance processes.
• Monitor contractual and contribution agreements for financial compliance and reporting.
• Oversee vendor management, including maintaining accurate vendor records, taxation details, banking information, and contact information.
• Generate and analyze accounts payable and vendor performance metrics.
• Support housing-related financial processes, including rent tracking and reporting, in collaboration with the Housing department.
• Perform other related duties as required to support organizational objectives.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation required.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, including responsibility for full-cycle accounting and financial reporting.
• Demonstrated experience in a management or senior accounting role with accountability for month-end and year-end close processes.
• Knowledge of funding agreements, contribution agreements, and reporting requirements specific to First Nation or government-funded organizations is an asset.
• Hands‑on experience with Sage Intacct accounting software is required.
• Strong understanding of public sector accounting standards (PSAS) and/or GAAP.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
• Experience overseeing or processing payroll, including remittances, source deductions, and compliance with federal and provincial regulations.
• Working knowledge of payroll legislation, WCB, GST, and other statutory remittances.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a complex environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information to non‑financial stakeholders.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and respect for confidentiality.
• Culturally aware and respectful approach when working within a First Nation organization, with an understanding of community‑based governance and values.

NOTE: A criminal check will be conducted on the successful applicant.

What we offer:

• Starting salary between $80,000 to $90,000, depending on education and experience
• Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Year's Day, as determined by the Council each year
• Paid annual vacation and sick days
• Employer‑paid Group Benefits which includes Life Insurance, Health and Dental benefits, health spending account, Employee Assistance Program, Disability coverage, available after 3 months of service
• Matched pension plan with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employee's salary, available after 4 months of service
• Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia

ʔakisqnuk First Nation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals. In accordance with our commitment to reconciliation and employment equity, preference may be given to qualified candidates who self‑identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. We encourage Indigenous applicants to self‑identify in their application.