Business Unit: Finance Department

Location: Lax Kw’alaams, British Columbia

Reporting to: Chief Administrative Officer The Lax Kw’alaams Finance Department has an exciting and immediate opening for a Full-Time Chief Financial Officer. As a key member of the team, this role is responsible for providing executive oversight of the organization’s financial operations, leading financial strategy, planning, reporting, and risk management.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer and working closely with Management, this role oversees all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, accounting, audits, purchasing, and forecasting, while ensuring transparency, accountability, compliance with Canadian accounting standards, and long-term financial sustainability for the Lax Kw’alaams First Nation.

Responsibilities

General

Assist with the analysis of future economic development initiatives and other projects by providing accurate cost–benefit analyses, revenue and expense projections, and fact-based recommendations

Support the Band in discussions and negotiations with commercial lenders related to current and future economic development opportunities

Develop and implement financial and operational strategies, including performance metrics aligned with organizational goals

Provide strategic financial leadership to support the organization’s long-term vision, goals, and community priorities

Lead multi-year financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting aligned with organizational and program objectives

Integrate strategic plans with annual operating plans to ensure effective resource allocation and service delivery

Support the CAO with financial analysis, scenario planning, and decision-support

Oversee development and monitoring of annual budgets, ensuring alignment with approved funding agreements

Identify financial risks and opportunities, and develop mitigation and sustainability strategies

Align financial planning with ISC, FNHA, and other funder requirements while maintaining flexibility and compliance

Monitor financial performance against plans and recommend corrective actions where needed

Contribute to organizational planning processes, including capital planning, growth initiatives, and program expansion

Ensure compliance and quality assurance across all financial operations, including records management, in accordance with legislated requirements and Band policy

Assist in the development and maintenance of a financial reporting framework that supports timely and accurate monthly reporting In collaboration with the CAO, oversee the preparation, implementation,



and monitoring of the annual budget

Prepare and present published budgets, annual reports, financial statements, financial recommendations, and other finance-related reports for Council, management, and other stakeholders

Oversee and support financial reporting, including forecasts, projections, and audit preparation and responses

Monitor and report on compliance with all agreements and funding arrangements involving the Band and its commercial entities

Ensure financial administration systems, policies, procedures, and internal controls are appropriately designed, effective, and continuously improved to identify efficiencies and cost savings

Develop and monitor control systems to safeguard the Band’s assets and effectively manage financial risk

Policy, Procedures, Legislation, and Regulations

Have a thorough understanding of, and the ability to learn, interpret, and communicate relevant legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures related to financial administration

Actively monitor compliance with the Band’s Financial Administration Law, as well as all applicable legislation, standards, policies and procedures

Develop, review, and enhance financial systems, policies, procedures, and internal controls to support sound financial governance and accountability

Staff Management

Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department, ensuring programs and staff operate in accordance with the Collective Agreements and Band policies and procedures

Approve timesheets and time off request

Foster a collaborative, respectful, and high-performing work environment within the Finance Department

Lead and manage organizational and departmental change in alignment with the Band’s vision, values, and strategic priorities

Note: Perform all other duties within the scope of the position and as requested by Chief Administrative Officer or Designate.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Professional Accounting Designation (CPA)

Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) is an asset

Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a senior financial management role, preferably within a First Nations government, local government, or a comparable organization

Minimum of five (5) years of experience working with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)



and the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) funding agreements, including compliance, reporting, and implementation

Experience managing fiscal resources, including the development and evaluation of business plans, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting

Competency

Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Solid work ethics

Strong organizational skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Strong strategic planning and decision making

Ability to manage budgets, personnel, and operations

Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of people

Ability and willingness to learn and adapt

Ability to work individually and as part of a team

Excellent time management skills; ability to meet deadliness

Excellent attention to detail and accuracy

Excellent technological skills, including Microsoft Office and equipment like calculators, photocopiers, fax machines, and printers

Ability to use accounting programs. Knowledge of Adagio is an asset

Knowledge of the Lax Kw’alaams people, culture & traditions, social dynamics & community is an asset

Knowledge of Payworks payroll system is an asset

Physical Demands and Working Environment

Physical Demand

Primarily office-based work requiring prolonged periods of sitting, computer use, and reading financial documents

Mental Demands

High level of concentration and attention to detail is required for financial analysis, reporting, and compliance monitoring

Meet deadlines, and respond to urgent issues under pressure

Condition of Employment

You will adhere to the Lax Kw’alaams Band Code of Conduct, Code of Confidentiality, Social Media Policy and any other Policies in the Human Resource Manual

Follow all guidelines harmoniously and cooperatively, creating a team approach in their duties for the Band’s future success

Acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search

Valid Driver’s License (Class 5)

Classification/Pay Scale

$130,000 – $150,000 per annum, dependent on the candidate’s depth and breadth of relevant experience

You can expect a supportive work environment along with a comprehensive total compensation package. This includes a competitive salary, extended health and dental benefits, and a pension plan with contributions of up to 5%, matched by the employer

Moving Allowance: Up to $5,000 will be reimbursed upon submission of receipts, based on the actual amount spent

Preference will be given to Lax Kw’alaams Band Members or qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry.

📌 Chief Financial Officer (Full-Time) | Lax Kw'alaams Band
🏢 Lax Kw'alaams
📍 Lax Kw'alaams