Financial Controller

Full-Time, Fixed Term Contract (7 months)

Ashbury College is a leading not-for-profit independent day and boarding school for students in Grades 4 to 12, located in Ottawa, Canada's capital and the traditional, unceded territory of the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation. We are proud to serve a vibrant and diverse community of over 60 nationalities, including students from the National Capital Region, the international diplomatic corps, and both domestic and international boarding families.

At Ashbury College, our mission is to inspire intellectually curious, compassionate, and responsible global citizens. We pursue this through excellence in teaching and learning, whole student development, and a deep commitment to access, inclusion, and sustainability. Our inclusive and collaborative community—made up of dedicated employees, volunteers, and students—celebrates diversity and actively works to remove barriers to equity, making our school stronger and more vibrant.

Ashbury College is currently seeking a financial controller for a fixed-term contract. Reporting to the CFO and Head of School, this role is responsible for financial reconciliations, financial planning and analysis, and payroll reconciliations. They are also responsible for being the primary support to and oversight of the Finance team.

Candidates should be aware that this position is a fixed-termcontract for approximately 7 months***,*** with the possibility of extension.

The successful candidate brings over five years of progressive finance/accounting experience, is an enthusiastic, articulate and creative financial professional who demonstrates initiative, integrity and attention to detail. Must be a collegial team player with strong communication skills

Minimum Requirements

• Post Secondary Education in Finance/Accounting
• CPA designation
• 5+ years of progressive Finance/Accounting experience
• Demonstrated expertise in Microsoft Excel
• Demonstrated experience with not-for-profit fund accounting

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an Independent School environment
• Experience with Dayforce and Multiview
• Expertise with Microsoft Office

Key Skills and Behaviours

• Analytical & Detail-Oriented: Skilled in financial analysis, reconciliations, and complex interfund journal entries to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Clear Communicator: Able to explain financial concepts to non-financial audiences with clarity and empathy, building trust across all levels of the school community.
• Ethical & Principled: Demonstrates integrity, sound judgment, and a strong sense of stewardship aligned with the school's mission and values.
• Collaborative Leader: Leads with a coaching mindset, fostering teamwork across finance, academics, operations, and advancement to support school-wide success.
• Systems & Process Focused: Proficient in financial systems and reporting tools, with a continuous improvement mindset to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to ensure that the organization meets its financial and accounting objectives.
• Oversee, improve and execute financial policies
• Oversee all day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll, and manage special projects as they arise
• Assist with negotiation and administration of contracts with significant suppliers
• Provide Multiview administration, managing accounts, opening/closing fiscal periods, etc.
• Maintain the school's general ledger – includes monthly journal entry creation and input
• Prepare quarterly financial reports and reconciliations
• Provide meaningful business analytics to support the leadership team in strategic decision-making
• Manage year-end audit process, including preparation of annual working papers and financial statements for the external auditors
• Responsible for preparing minutes and all financial materials for the Board Finance & Audit Committee and Foundation Finance & Investment Committee meetings
• Prepare financial modelling of new projects and strategic initiatives
• Manage HST reporting, including tax rebate claims
• Oversee and manage year-end tax receipt work for preparation and distribution to parents
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

People Management

• Lead and support the Finance team and Store Manager

• Conduct annual performance reviews

• Coach and train staff for growth and development

• Address performance issues, complaints, and team concerns

• Facilitate regular departmental meetings to share updates, set goals, and align on strategy

Ashbury College provides a competitive compensation and group health and pension benefits package.

We encourage all qualified candidates to submit their applications at their earliest convenience. Please note that the p****osting will be removed once the position is successfully filled.

We welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds, especially those from groups that have faced historical and/or systemic barriers to equity. Joining Ashbury means contributing to a dynamic learning environment where your unique perspectives and experiences help shape a more inclusive future.

Should you have any questions about this position, please email

If we contact you about an employment opportunity and you require an accommodation, we'll work with you to meet your needs.