Okanagan Indian Band Director of Finance

KʷU KʷLIW̓T L̓ NQMAPLQS | WE LIVE AT HEAD OF THE LAKE

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.
Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:

• 4 Weeks’ Vacation Pay

• Extended Health and Dental Benefits

• Employer Matched Pension Plan

• Paid Director’s Days off (one per month)

• 15 Statutory Holidays

• Paid Winter Holiday Break

• Discounted Silver Star lift passes

• Cultural Leave

• Retention Bonuses after years of service

• 15 Paid Sick Days

• Paid Personal Leave

• Employee Assistance Program

• Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work**: 37.5 hours per week**

Deadline for applications**: August 1, 2025**

JOB SUMMARY
Reporting to the Director of Administration, the Director of Finance is responsible for the financial operations of the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB), including accounting systems, budgeting, payroll and statutory reporting. This role ensures compliance with OKIB policies, Chief and Council directives, applicable legislation, and the Financial Administration Bylaw. The Director leads the development and implementation of risk mitigation strategies related to financial management, and ensures all financial decisions reflect the best interests of the community.

The Director of Finance is the organization’s senior financial authority, providing strategic financial advice and direction to the Director of Administration, OKIB leadership, and stakeholders. The role includes oversight of all accounting operations, budgeting processes, financial systems, forecasting, investment planning, payroll and internal controls.

The Director ensures that OKIB’s financial statements and reports are accurate, timely, and compliant with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), while also supporting the development of financial policies to maintain fiscal integrity and transparency.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Planning

• Lead and support financial aspects of OKIB’s strategic, operational, and capital plans.

• Collaborate with Directors to establish and manage annual budgeting cycles.

• Provide financial insights and forecasting to support long-term sustainability.

• Oversee the development and maintenance of financial systems.

Financial Management and Controllership

• Oversee financial operations across OKIB to ensure compliance with laws, policies, and procedures.

• Monitor financial records, internal controls, cash flow, and financial quality assurance.

• Support departments in developing budgets and financial forecasts.

• Conduct financial analysis, risk assessments, and cash flow projections.

• Manage and monitor short- and long-term investments.

• Review and respond to audit findings and implement corrective actions where necessary.

• Recommend financial policies, procedures, and accounting standards.

• Ensure financial reporting obligations are met under contribution agreements.

• Lead Controller and support the rest of the Finance staff, providing leadership, mentorship, and training.

• Prepare and present timely and accurate financial reports to the Director of Administration and Chief and Council.

• Ensure emergency preparedness and willingness to contribute to OKIB’s emergency response efforts.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

• Maintain monthly reconciliations of balance sheet accounts and General Ledger reviews.

• Support and attend Finance Committee and Band meetings, including audit presentations.

• Ensure staff performance reviews are completed and actioned.

• Address and mediate personnel matters as needed.

• Attend relevant meetings (e.g., interagency, Directors) and participate in community events as requested.

DIRECT REPORTS
Controller & Information Technology Manager

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR
You have education, experience, or an equivalent combination may be considered. You are community-minded, detail-oriented, have a willingness to contribute to a team and an excellent communicator.

Education

• Undergraduate degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.

• Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation in good standing.

• Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) is preferred.

• Class 5 BC Driver’s Licence and access to a reliable vehicle.

• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years progressive financial management experience in a First Nation or public sector setting, including team leadership.

• Strong knowledge of federal and provincial funding programs and reporting requirements.

• Demonstrated success managing accounting and payroll systems (experience with ACCPAC and Payworks is preferred).

• Proven ability to lead teams, implement procedures, and drive compliance.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

• Culturally sensitive and committed to participating in community and organizational activities.

• Must successfully pass a criminal record check, credit check, and reference check.

Competencies (KSAs & Desired Attributes)

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Sound judgment and decision-making skills.

• Project management and program development capability.

• Excellent written and verbal communication.

• Effective team leadership and performance management.

• Skilled in negotiation and conflict resolution.

• Ability to work with discretion and maintain confidentiality.

• Time management and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment.

• Culturally respectful and community oriented.

CLASSIFICATION/PAY SCALE
$115,000 - $130,000 annually dependant on education and experience

Please send resume, cover letter and references in any one of two ways:

Email: recruiting@okanagan.org
Mail or drop off: 12420 Westside Road, Vernon, BC V1H 2A4
If you have accessibility needs, please contact Hollie Lachuk @ 250-542-4328 ext. 1011

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check that includes the vulnerable sector and three references

Education : Bachelor’s degree

Experience : 5 years or more