Director of Finance

Location: Omineca and Yellowhead (Smithers)

Salary Range: $110,000 to $120,000 annually

Job Title:

Director of Finance

Location:

Fort St. James, BC

Employment Type:

Full-time, Permanent
Wage:  $110,000 to $120,000 (Commensurate with Experience)

About Us
Nak'azdli Whut'en is a proud Dakelh First Nation located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Our community is deeply rooted in Dakelh culture, language, and values, emphasizing a connection to the land and a commitment to the well‑being of our people. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive services that reflect our culture and respect the unique perspectives and needs of our members.

At Nak'azdli Whut'en, we strive to provide community-focused health and social services that uphold Indigenous values and address the distinct challenges facing our community.

Job Summary
The Director of Finance is responsible for the day-to-day financial administration of Nak’azdli Whut’en, in alignment with the Nak’azdli Financial Administration Law (FAL) 2024, and reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO). This position fulfills all functions required under FAL’s definition of Director of Finance, including financial planning, budgeting, reporting, compliance, and internal control. The Director of Finance ensures financial integrity, supports strategic decision‑making, and upholds culturally aligned fiscal stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Planning & Budgeting

Prepare and submit draft annual budgets and local revenue amendments to the Finance and Audit Committee.

Contribute to the multi‑year financial plan and Council’s strategic planning process.

Collaborate with the Tax Administrator on budget inputs related to local revenues.

Prepare

Monthly financial summaries

Quarterly financial statements

Annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP

Special purpose reports (remuneration, guarantees, forgiven debts, etc.)

Present reports to the COO, Council, and Finance & Audit Committee within required timelines.

Compliance & Internal Controls

Monitor compliance with the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, FAL, Council policies, and applicable standards.

Maintain financial administration systems, internal controls, and approved procedures.

Evaluate system effectiveness and recommend improvements.

Records & Accounting Systems

Maintain and administer the Nation’s chart of accounts.

Oversee proper financial recordkeeping and ensure secure storage and confidentiality of financial data.

Account separately for local and other revenues, as required by FAL.

Audit & Committee Engagement

Attend Finance and Audit Committee meetings and provide required reports.

Liaise with the Nation’s auditor and ensure audit readiness of financial statements and reports.

Investment, Risk, and Asset Oversight

Support preparation of financial risk assessments and strategies for safeguarding assets.

Advise on investment matters consistent with the Council‑approved investment strategy.

Support insurance and guarantee‑related reporting requirements.

Leadership & Delegation

Supervise finance staff and ensure role clarity, capacity‑building, and performance monitoring.

Assign financial duties to staff or contractors, as appropriate, while maintaining oversight and accountability.

Community-Centered Financial Governance

Ensure financial practices reflect Nak’azdli Whut’en’s values of respect, accountability, and collective well‑being.

Support financial literacy, openness, and cultural alignment in all fiscal activities.

Qualifications

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)  designation is a mandatory requirement.

Previous experience working under a Financial Administration Law (FAL), Finance and Audit Committee (FAC), and Financial Administration Act (FAA) is a mandatory requirement.

Minimum 7–10 years of progressive financial leadership experience , preferably in public sector or Indigenous governance.

Demonstrated ability to analyze financial risks, budgets, and reports with precision.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with Council, auditors, community members, and external partners.

Proven ability to lead teams, build capacity, and ensure culturally aligned financial governance.

Benefits
At Nak’azdli…