Director, Finance

Full-time Permanent Position

Who We Are

Located on 10 beautiful acres in the heart of Olde Oakville, St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School (SMLS) is a premier independent school for girls from JK through to Grade 12. Our mission is to engage each girl in a personalized, real-world learning experience where she explores her unique pathways within a nurturing community.

An Opportunity to Join SMLS

Role Overview

SMLS has an opening for a Director, Finance. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), this role is responsible for financial statement preparation and reconciliation, financial planning and analysis, and payroll administration. He/She is responsible for being the primary support to the CFO and managing the following direct report: Finance & Operations Coordinator.

Candidates should be aware that this function is evolving, and as such, the position title and select duties may be refined over time, within reasonable scope. The fundamental purpose of the role and its primary areas of responsibility will remain intact.

Position Details

Department: Finance

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

Education: Post Secondary Education in Finance/Accounting

CPA designation preferred

Experience: 5+ years of progressive Finance/Accounting experience Expert Microsoft Excel User

Fluent in Microsoft Office and Google Suite

Comfortable in a Mac-based environment

Experience with ADP, Blackbaud Financial Edge

Experience with not for profit accounting (asset)

Experience in an Independent School (asset) Working Conditions: School/Office Environment Frequent computer/desk use

Key Knowledge, Skills & Experience

We are seeking a dynamic and exemplary financial professional with a willingness to continue to develop and grow as a professional. 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.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to ensure that the organization meets its financial and accounting objectives.
• Formulate, plan and execute financial policies
• Manage all day-to-day accounting functions and special projects as they arise
• Formulate, plan and execute financial policies and ensure appropriate financial controls and procedures are in place and that financial policies are adhered to
• Manage the school's purchasing and inventory functions including vendor setup, credit applications, PO requests, approvals, and payments
• Assist the CFO with negotiation and administration of contracts with significant suppliers
• Blackbaud Financial Edge administration; managing accounts, opening/closing fiscal periods, etc.
• Maintain the school's general ledger – includes monthly journal entry creation and input
• Manage investment of operating funds to meet School's cash flow requirements
• Manage the school's bank accounts; performing monthly bank reconciliations
• Responsible for preparing the monthly/quarterly financial statements and reconciliations
• Analyze monthly financial performance including budget and forecast variances
• Process monthly payroll for the School through ADP with the support of Human Resources
• Manage and execute payment processing and reporting for the school's benefits plans, including the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan, the RRSP plan and the benefits insurance plan
• Responsible for preparing the annual budget and maintaining the quarterly forecasting process
• Provide meaningful business analytics to support the leadership team in strategic decision making
• Manage year-end audit process including preparation and supervision 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 meetings
• Assist the CFO with detailed financial modeling of new projects and strategic initiatives
• Manage all tax related programs including tax rebate claims and T4 processing
• Oversee and manage year-end tax receipt work for preparation and distribution to parents
• Oversee the student billing and AR collection process
• Leadership of overall account collections
• Liaise with the Development team to ensure an accurate financial record of strategic fundraising initiatives
• Manage all financial statements, bank statements and provide financial support to the Parent Association and Alumnae Association
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the CFO

People Management

• Supervise and direct the work of Finance & Operations Coordinator
• Recruit and select necessary staff to meet departmental requirements
• Provide comprehensive orientation for new staff members outlining SMLS staff policies, procedures, and objectives
• Prepare annual performance appraisals
• Develop staff through coaching and training according to business and individual needs
• Address all disciplinary issues and aid in termination
• Address and manage all complaints, issues, or grievances that arise among team members
• Schedule and lead regular departmental meetings as a means of sharing company information, setting goals, and communicating strategic objectives

Who You Are

Your Strengths

• Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

Experience in analyzing financial performance, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities, and recommending effective solutions that align with school priorities.

• Clear and Supportive Communication

An ability to translate financial concepts for non-financial audiences, including school leadership, faculty, staff, and the Board. Builds trust through transparency, clarity, and partnership.

• Integrity, Sound Judgment, and Stewardship

A commitment to ethical financial practices and confidentiality. Demonstrates alignment with the values and mission of the school.

• Collaborative Leadership and Team Development

Experience leading a finance team with a coaching mindset. Works in partnership with academic, operational, and advancement departments to support school-wide goals and student experience.

• Systems & Operational Excellence

Proficiency with financial systems, reporting tools, and process optimization. Brings a continuous improvement mindset to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and service.

• Not-for-Profit and Educational Finance Expertise (Preferred)

Knowledge of independent or not-for-profit school finance is an asset, including government reporting, internal controls, risk management, and audit.

Why Join SMLS?

Our work is meaningful and important. As a school, we support each student's interests, talents, learning needs and strengths. Through our world-class facility, Signature Programs, expertise in girls' education, and dedication to personalization, our students become lifelong learners equipped to achieve excellence in whatever path they choose.

When you join SMLS, you join a fun and supportive community!

Our employees enjoy competitive compensation packages and may be eligible for some of the following benefits:

• Health, vision, and dental care
• Life insurance, AD&D insurance, and Long Term Disability insurance
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
• Mental health & wellbeing resources
• Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan / RRSP program with up to 5% employer match
• A healthy lunch program during the school year
• On-site fitness facilities
• On-site parking
• Time off during Winter Break and March Break
• Summer hours and extra long weekends in line with the school calendar

OUR VISION

Young women empowered to challenge and transform the world.

OUR MISSION

To engage each girl in a personalized, real-world learning experience where she explores her unique pathways within a nurturing community.

OUR VALUES

Excellence · Courage · Integrity · Belonging

If you are interested in an opportunity to join our school, please apply online at

We appreciate and thank all applicants for your interest in SMLS, however, only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted.

SMLS is an equal opportunity employer and we accommodate any needs under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment within our community. Please contact Human Resources with any requirements or questions.