Director, Financial Services

Job Description

 

PositionTitle:

  Director of Financial Services

Department:

Finance

Reports to:

CAO

Amended:

June 3, 2026

 

 

POSITION SUMMARY

 

Reporting directly to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the CFO / Director of Financial Services provides strategic financial leadership across the organization. This senior executive role is accountable for all aspects of the City’s financial management, including corporate budgeting, accounting, treasury, taxation, purchasing, and long-term financial planning.

The CFO serves as a key advisor to Council, the CAO, and senior leadership on financial matters and plays a central role in ensuring fiscal stewardship, transparency, and accountability in the management of public funds.

 

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

 

Strategic Financial Leadership

• Develop and execute the City’s long-term financial strategy aligned with Council’s vision and the Corporate Strategic Plan.
• Provide expert financial advice and recommendations to Council, the CAO, and senior leadership.
• Lead financial risk management, identifying and mitigating fiscal risks to the municipality.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and financial accountability.

 

Budget & Financial Planning

• Lead the annual operating and capital budget processes, including multi-year financial planning.
• Prepare and present the municipal budget and financial plans to Council for approval.
• Monitor and report on budget performance throughout the year, providing analysis and variance explanations.
• Oversee the development of long-range financial forecasts and fiscal sustainability plans.

 

Accounting, Reporting & Compliance

• Ensure the integrity and accuracy of all financial records and reporting systems.
• Oversee preparation of annual financial statements in accordance with Public Sector Accounting Standards (PSAS).
• Manage the external audit process and maintain strong relationships with auditors.
• Ensure compliance with the Municipal Government Act, tax legislation, and all applicable provincial and federal regulations.

 

Treasury & Revenue Management

• Manage the City’s investment portfolio in accordance with the Investment Policy.
• Oversee cash flow management, banking relationships, and debt financing.
• Administer property tax assessment, billing, and collection processes.
• Develop and maintain utility and fee rate structures.

 

Procurement & Asset Management

• Oversee the corporate procurement function, ensuring compliance with purchasing policies and trade agreements.
• Provide oversight of the corporate asset management program and related financial planning.
• Ensure effective contract management and vendor relations.

 

People Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Financial Services team.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative departmental culture.
• Establish clear performance expectations and support professional development opportunities.

 

Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent of this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and activities required of this position.

 

EXPECTED SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES

 

• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Experience in a municipal government, public sector, or quasi-governmental environment is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex multi-year budgeting processes.
• Proven track record of financial reporting under Public Sector Accounting Standards (PSAS).
• Experience with long-term capital planning, debt management, and treasury functions.

 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and other applicable Alberta legislation.
• Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex financial information clearly to diverse audiences including elected officials and the public.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
• High degree of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to public service.
• Proficiency with financial management systems and ERP platforms.

 

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EQUIVALENT WORK EXPERIENCE

 

• Post-secondary degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• CPA designation (CPA, CA, CMA, or CGA legacy) is required.
• Masters degree is an asset.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

 

• Normal office conditions; long periods of sitting, reading, and concentration.
• Travel throughout the city may be required