Head of Finance

Wanuskewin, the nēhiyawēwin word roughly translated as seeking peace of mind, has been a sacred site and gathering place for more than 6,400 years. Together, we work to advance the understanding and appreciation of the evolving cultures of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples.  

Vision

Wanuskewin will be a living reminder of the peoples’ sacred relationship with the land.

Mission

To advance the understanding and appreciation of the evolving cultures of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples.

Position Summary:

Wanuskewin Heritage Park is looking to fill the position of the Head of Finance. This is a key leadership role that reports to the CEO and Board of Directors with responsibility for overall financial management and leadership of the park.

Your duties and responsibilities include:

·  Lead financial management practices resulting in ongoing stewardship, cost, efficiencies, strong operating results, enabling growth and creating financial sustainability.

·   Develop and maintain Wanuskewin’s overall operating budget, business planning, cash flow management and forecasting, ensuring alignment with the strategic plan of the organization

·   Collaborate with all department heads to ensure each leader has appropriate knowledge of, and is able to manage their budget, speak to the monthly P&L statements, to ensure the overall budget achieves business objectives.

·   Lead establishment of financial procedures and internal controls throughout the organization to appropriately mitigate risk.

·   Serve as the primarily contact for key financial relationships including auditors, financial institutions, government and funding sources.

·   Lead and manage the Park’s annual financial statement audit.

·   Provide Wanuskewin management and Board of Directors with accurate regular financial reporting.

·   Responsible to accurately oversee the full accounting cycle.

·   Responsible to manage administration departmental budget and provide oversight and coaching for direct reports and departmental budget.

·   Project management of capital and administrative projects as identified and assigned by the Board of Directors.

·   Manage departmental budgets, including expense tracking, forecasting, and reporting.

·   Responsible for overseeing all aspects of staff management for the Finance Team to ensure a high-performing, engaged, and cohesive team.

o   Oversee day-to-day team operations by assigning and prioritizing work, developing and managing staff schedules, monitoring performance and productivity, and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outcomes aligned with organizational goals.

o Recruitment and Onboarding: Implement recruitment strategies to attract top talent, conduct interviews, and facilitate a smooth onboarding process that integrates new hires into the company culture.

o   Training and Development: Identify training needs, create professional development programs, and support employees in enhancing their skills and career growth through mentorship and continuous learning opportunities

o   Performance Management: Establish clear performance expectations, conduct regular evaluations, and provide constructive feedback to promote accountability and foster a culture of excellence

o   Employee Relations: Serve as a point of contact for employee concerns, mediate conflicts, and promote a positive workplace environment by encouraging open communication and collaboration, ensure adherence to company policies and procedures, and actively participate in the development and refinement of HR policies to align with organizational goals.  

·   Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

·   Bachelor degree in accounting or finance

·   CPA designation

·   Minimum of 5 years as a minimum with a preference for 10 years of experience in professional practice or not-for-profit environments

·   Understanding of accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations

·   Collaborative leadership style with commitment to mentoring and developing a high-performance finance team

·   Business acumen and solutions focus with ability to navigate short-term and long-term opportunities and challenges from a financial perspective

·   Experience with Legal & Insurance providers

·  Risk Management

·   Compliance with government Acts

·   Grant Reporting

·   Charitable Returns

·   Negotiation of Benefits

·   Appreciation, awareness and cultural sensitivity of Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples

·   Excellent interpersonal, communication, problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

·   A suitable combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

·   Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

·   Combination of sedentary and active work, including extended periods of sitting for administrative tasks, planning, and communication along with movement throughout the building.

·   Occasional lifting, carrying, and moving of materials.

·   Ability to stand for moderate periods during events, and workshops.

·   Ability to walk short to moderate distances.

Additional Requirements:

·   A satisfactory criminal record check is required as a condition of employment.

·   Wanuskewin is located outside of Saskatoon city limits and public transportation is not available. Reliable personal transportation is required.

·   Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and present a satisfactory drivers abstract. 

·   First Aid and CPR would be considered an asset. 

Safety

All employees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to safety in the workplace, including in one’s own work, that of the team, and that of the entire organization

Why Join Wanuskewin?

Wanuskewin Heritage Park is more than a workplace—it’s a cultural hub where history, hospitality, and community come together. We prioritize Indigenous hiring and celebrate diversity in all its forms. If you’re passionate about service and cultural connection, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Process:

Wanuskewin has a priority to hire Indigenous candidates, please note in your cover letter if you choose to disclose.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.