Director of Finance

The Gairdner Foundation, home to Canada’s most prestigious biomedical research awards, is seeking a Director of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership as we continue advancing our mission of celebrating and supporting world‑leading science.

Reporting to the President and Scientific Director, the Director of Finance is a key member of the executive team, providing oversight of all financial operations, compliance, risk management, data and technology oversight, and board committee support.

• Lead and oversee all financial operations of the Foundation, including accounting; budgeting, financial planning and forecasting; treasury functions and cash flow management; payroll; investment co‑ordination and financial controls.
• Manage all financial reporting processes, including maintenance of financial records, year‑end working papers, annual financial statements, and financial reporting to funders and government partners.
• Lead the annual external audit process and coordinate any additional audits required by the Foundation.
• Ensure compliance with all provincial and federal funding agreements, including preparation and submission of required financial reports and audit documentation.
• Manage relationships with external financial partners including banks, investment managers, auditors, insurers and other external stakeholders.
• Provide oversight of the Foundation's information technology & data management systems, security and controls through external vendors, ensuring appropriate cybersecurity, data integrity, business continuity, and risk management practices.
• Provide financial advice and insights to the President and Scientific Director, leadership team, and Board of Directors.
• Serve as Board Secretary, providing governance and administrative support to the Board of Directors and ensuring the effective coordination of Board activities.
• Coordinate Board meetings, including the preparation and distribution of agendas, meeting materials, minutes, and governance documentation.
• Support the Board Chair and Committee Chairs in the planning and execution of Board and Committee meetings and annual governance activities.
• Provide staff and organizational support to the Audit and Investment Committees, including the preparation of meeting materials, reports, agendas, and minutes.
• Maintain the Foundation's corporate records and governance documentation, ensuring compliance with applicable legislation, bylaws, and governance best practices.

• Professional accounting designation (CPA preferred) or equivalent senior financial leadership experience.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in financial management, reporting, audit, and strategic planning.
• Strong understanding of financial controls, compliance, risk management, and governance practices.
• Demonstrated experience providing high-level governance and executive support to Boards of Directors or Board Committees.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Experience in the charitable sector is an asset.
• Bilingualism is an asset.

• Competitive annual salary and benefits package.
• A dynamic and varied leadership role with responsibility for finance, investments, risk management, and governance, including direct support to the Board of Directors.
• Hybrid work (downtown Toronto office + some remote flexibility).
• A collaborative, mission‑driven team environment.
• Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a respected Canadian charitable organization.