Finance Manager
Municipal District of Bighorn
About the Municipal District of Bighorn:
The Municipal District of Bighorn No. 8 is a rural municipality located in a beautiful natural setting. A community of unique communities, the MD is characterized by ranching and other agricultural uses, industrial uses, low impact tourism facilities, hamlets, and large tracts of undeveloped crown land reserved for forestry activities. It is recognized that the quality of life of our residents is tied to a healthy, natural environment and robust economy.
Why work for us?
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Local Authorities Pension Plan (LAPP)
- Wellness Spending Account
- Paid vacation and personal days
- Work/Life Balance
- Management Days
Summary:
The MD of Bighorn is seeking an experienced Finance Manager responsible for the operational functions of our Finance Department. You will lead and mentor finance staff, oversee day-to-day operations, and support internal departments in meeting their fiduciary responsibilities.
The Finance Manager will lead the operational functions of the Finance Department, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and efficiency in all financial processes, reporting, and compliance. This leadership role requires strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and a commitment to building a high-performing team.
Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services, the Finance Manager oversees senior-level accounting functions, forecasting, financial reporting, and analysis. You will maintain robust internal controls, coordinate audit preparation, and provide financial insights that support strategic decision-making and long-term sustainability. This position also provides relief coverage for the Director of Corporate Services when required. The Finance Manager ensures clear communication of and adherence to corporate policies and procedures, embody the MD’s core values and corporate culture and collaborate with senior leaders and Council to support strategic financial decision-making.
Hours of Work:
Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Flexibility required.
Salary:
Starting at $156,373.20
Duties and Responsibilities:
Financial Services:
- Oversee financial services and functions, including accounting controls, taxation and assessment, utilities, accounts receivable/payable and coverage for payroll when needed.
- Leads financial reporting, variance analysis, and audit preparation.
- Develops and implements effective internal controls and ensures compliance with legislation and accounting standards.
- Recommends and implements policies, plans, and programs for finance and accounting functions.
- Guides and assists with the preparation of internal financial reports, including variance reporting and analysis.
- Provides direction and assistance with external reporting for grants, provincial or federal reporting, etc.
- Assists in the development of operating and capital budgets and forecasts, including long-term financial planning and strategies.
- Assists in the preparation and audit of the MD’s financial statements.
- Resolves accounting discrepancies.
- Stays current with best practices, relevant legislation (e.g., Municipal Government Act), and Public Sector Accounting Board standards.
- Proficiency with ERP, such as Townsuite (preferred, but not mandatory) and Questica software systems.
- Research best practices, technologies, and equipment to enhance departmental operations.
- Ensure restricted information is safeguarded, and confidentiality is maintained.
- Other duties assigned by the Director of Corporate Services.
Council & Public Service:
- Supports the Director of Corporate Services in the presentation of budget and other financial information to Council.
- Prepares financial reports and analysis for Council, other departments, or other interest holders.
- Ensures timely and accurate submission of reports and documentation.
- Develops, recommends, and monitors the implementation of bylaws, policies, business objectives, best practices, operating procedures, technical specifications and standards, and technologies.
- Applies for and administers available grant funding.
- Acts as administrative liaison to various boards, committees and government agencies.
- Responds to and resolves public complaints and enquiries.
- Promotes a positive customer service culture, ensuring that all public-facing services are welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to residents' needs.
- Cultivate strong community relationships while upholding professionalism and public confidence.
Leadership & Human Resources
- Oversee the recruitment, training, supervision, performance evaluation and discipline of permanent and temporary staff, and contracted employees with the consultation of the People & Culture Manager.
- Fulfills the responsibilities and accountabilities assigned under the Municipal Health and Safety Program.
- Completes staff performance and evaluation reviews for direct reports in accordance with municipal policy, culture, and standards as well as applicable legislation.
- Provide ongoing mentorship to Direct Reports to assist them in achieving their professional development goals and improved performance.
- Provide supervisory directions to direct reports through coordination of duties, assignment of tasks, and review of workloads with assistance
- Engage Finance staff in the development of work plans, goals, and optimizing process evaluations to improve service delivery to the public.
- Performs the duties assigned in the Municipal Emergency Plan.
- Collaborate effectively with internal departments and cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive service delivery, streamline operations, and support shared organizational goals.
- Model positive and respectful communication with inter-departments, intra-departmental and employees in the company demonstrating a positive workplace culture.
- Acts as backup for the Director of Corporate Services.
Qualifications:
- Post Secondary degree from a recognized university - Required
- CPA designation or currently completing CPA Designation, or equivalent – Considered an Asset
- Knowledge of local government or public sector practices and procedures – Required
- NACLAA Level I – Considered an Asset
- A minimum of 5 years directly related progressively responsible experience managing and supervising employees
- Effective supervisory skills and a willingness to work with direct reports and senior management; strong leadership and team-building skills.
- Advanced knowledge of Canadian Public Sector Accounting Standards (PSAS)
- Experience with ERP software such as Townsuite, Questica and PSD Citywide Asset Management – Considered an Asset
- Experience with other relevant accounting or analytics tools.
- A working knowledge of the Municipal Government Act.
- Demonstrated strength in analytical and mathematical tasks.
- Strong organizational skills to understand, realistically plan for and meet deadlines, while adapting to changing demands and priorities.
- Finance and accounting subject matter expertise, with proven track records of internal support and influence.
- Proven project management experience and expertise.
- Superior writing and verbal communication skills.
- Experience presenting information, progress reports and professional advice to councils or senior management for decisions making.
- Demonstrated success managing conflict and competing interests.
- Strong proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced skills in Excel, Word and Outlook.
- Familiarity with financial reporting software, budgeting systems and data analysis.
- Good telephone and front desk skills in dealing with the public.
- Ability to deal with difficult people.
- Prepared to accept/complete further training.
Application Deadline & Submission:
Open until September 7th, 2026, or until a suitable candidate is found.
Submit your application with a resume and cover letter to Laure Wanlin: [email protected]
The Municipal District of Bighorn is committed to building a workplace where everyone can succeed and belong. We are an equal opportunity employer which fosters an inclusive work environment for current and prospective employees.
We value a wide range of skills, experiences, and backgrounds and encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We are working to eliminate barriers for applicants and team members from equity-seeking groups. If you cannot apply online or need an accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact [email protected]
Pay: From $156,373.20 per year
Work Location: In person
