Head of Finance R. Howard Webster Foundation Montreal, Quebec

About the opportunity Reporting directly to the President, you will lead the finance function for a well-established private family office and philanthropic foundation. You will oversee financial reporting, accounting operations, tax compliance and planning, treasury management, and the continued development of a high-performing finance team.

Beyond traditional finance responsibilities, you will help drive process improvements, lead systems modernization initiatives, and contribute to strategic projects alongside senior leadership, the Board of Directors, and external advisors.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership Lead and develop the finance and accounting function across multiple entities. Mentor and support a team of accounting professionals while fostering a collaborative, high-performing culture. Serve as a trusted business partner to the President and provide strategic financial guidance.

Accounting & Financial Reporting Oversee the full accounting cycle for multiple entities, including, but not limited to: cash accounts, investment accounts, general ledger reconciliations, invoicing and tax reconciliations. Review period end accounting for multiple entities, including consolidation of operational companies. Review and analyze financial statements of multiple entities. Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements. Coordinate annual audits and act as the primary liaison with external auditors. Perform payroll and maintain payroll reconciliations and information. Lead the accounting of complex transactions and seek external experts when needed.

Management Reporting Prepare and present comprehensive reporting packages for shareholders and the Board of Directors, including financial statements, variance analysis, cash flow reporting, net worth reporting, and strategic financial commentary. Lead the annual budgeting process and monitor budget-to-actual performance. Provide financial analysis and recommendations to senior leadership. Ensure CNESST requirements are fulfilled, including year-end declarations.

Treasury Management Oversee treasury operations across all entities. Maintain strong relationships with financial institutions. Manage online banking platforms, user access, and internal controls. Ensure effective cash management, payment processing, and banking operations.

Taxation Tax planning for all entities, including dividend declarations for both taxable and CDA dividends and ensure proper execution. Participate in estate and trust planning alongside legal and tax advisors. Review of tax returns (T1 – personal, T2 – Corporate, T3 – Trusts, T3010 – Foundations). Review of payroll tax slips (T4, RL-1, RL-1 Summaries, T5). Oversee GST/QST sales tax compliance. Respond to inquiries from the Canada Revenue Agency and Revenu Québec.

Continuous Improvement & Strategic Projects Drive continuous improvement of finance and accounting processes. Identify opportunities to automate manual workflows and improve operational efficiency. Lead the implementation of a new accounting system integrated with a new investment platform. Collaborate with external advisors on strategic initiatives and special projects.

Qualifications ` You are an experienced CPA recognized for your sound judgment, collaborative leadership style, and ability to thrive in a dynamic environment with diverse and complex financial matters. You enjoy balancing strategic thinking with hands-on involvement when needed.

A Bachelor's degree in Accounting. CPA designation. A minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience. Tax experience involving individuals, corporations, trusts, or charitable organizations is considered a strong asset. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and French. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. A collaborative, solutions-oriented approach. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with AI-powered financial tools; experience with Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) is an asset.

Why Join Us? A strategic leadership role with significant autonomy and visibility. Unique exposure to the financial operations of both a family office and a philanthropic foundation. Diverse and intellectually stimulating work spanning accounting, taxation, investments, and transformation projects. Centrally located downtown Montreal offices. Comprehensive health and dental benefits. Employer-matched pension plan. Hybrid work model with one remote workday per week. A culture that values excellence, collaboration, and work-life balance.

About the Foundation The R. Howard Webster Foundation supports outstanding Canadian charitable organizations by funding innovative programs and initiatives that contribute to the advancement, well-being, and development of Canadian society.