Director of Finance And Accounting

Pathfind has partnered exclusively with the Alberta Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) to recruit a Director of Finance position, a critical role within the organization.

You are a proactive leader who thrives on challenges, maintaining a positive outlook while driving toward organizational and team success.

You have a passion for personal and team development and are committed to fostering growth within the team and achieving financial objectives.

You possess an entrepreneurial spirit expressed through your business acumen and growth mindset. You're a great communicator and leader with a strategic mindset and problem-solving abilities.

As a small team, the organization is all hands on deck, meaning there will be plenty of learning opportunities, variety, and a chance to evolve within your role.

The Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) , the voice of Alberta hotels, is the funded safety association for hotels & convention centers in the province.

The organization brings together Alberta hotels to help its members prosper. The AHLA has been around for over a century, and a large part of our success comes down to our service-oriented, collaborative, and innovative team.

The advocacy work of the AHLA protects and promotes the interests of its members concerning legislation, policy, and regulations that affect Alberta’s tourism and hospitality industry.

The cost-saving programs add value to members and improve the quality of hotel operations. The health & safety programming provides current and relevant training and resources for the industry.

The accounting and finance team supports the full-cycle accounting needs of our dynamic industry association and accounting and audit requirements for several client companies.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the AHLA is looking for an experienced leader to join its Leadership Team to :

• Drive financial strategies.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• Participate and guide EOS planning cycles.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong financial acumen, leadership skills, and a focus on compliance and risk management while spearheading process improvements and automation initiatives to optimize financial operations.

Key Responsibilities :

• Setting a clear vision and direction for the team, inspiring everyone to work towards common goals.
• Inspiring and energizing team members to achieve their goals and perform at their best. Providing guidance, support, and development opportunities.
• Make informed and timely decisions that align with the organizational goals and values.
• Flexible and open to change, guiding the team through transitions and challenges.
• Holding oneself and team members responsible for their actions, commitments, and results.
• Proficiency in analyzing financial data, interpreting trends, and identifying key insights to inform decision-making. Proven skill in forecasting future economic performance and developing accurate budgets to support business operations.
• Proven knowledge of accounting principles and compliance, including audit support.
• Capacity to make sound financial decisions even in complex or uncertain situations, considering risks and benefits.
• Proven ability in financial reporting, development, and board packages.
• Ability to analyze financial data and trends and report on KPIs
• Capability to identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the organization’s financial position.
• Proven ability to effectively develop and allocate financial resources, aligning with investment policy.
• Proven skills in building relationships and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement financial strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex financial concepts and strategies clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including senior leadership and board members.

Key Requirements :

• Education : CPA and bachelor's degree in accounting or business administration.
• Experience : Five (5) years of progressive experience in a senior accounting role and at least three (3) years in a leadership position.

Proven experience in managing payroll operations and financial processes within non-profit organizations and corporate services structures.

Communication and Leadership : Proven leadership experience, cross-functional collaboration, and team development. A results-driven mindset focused on performance improvements.

Strategic thinker with problem-solving abilities. Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Strong financial acumen, and financial strategy : Proven record of crafting and implementing financial strategies, alongside a deep understanding of accounting regulations and standards.

Experience in managing financial assets, risks, and compliance.

• Regulatory compliance and risk management : Demonstrated understanding of regulatory compliance and risk management principles, ensuring the organization operates within legal and ethical boundaries while mitigating financial risks effectively.
• Leadership and team development.
• Strong financial acumen and decision-making.
• Financial strategy development.
• Regulatory compliance and risk management

Working with the AHLA :

AHLA is a close-knit, collaborative group committed to providing our members the best service and value. Some team members have been with the organization for 5, 10, and even 20 years, which says a lot.

All of its employees embrace its 5 Core Values :

• We live with Integrity We choose to do the right thing, even when it’s hard.
• We take pride in Serving. Service is an attitude. It’s about doing your best in whatever job you’ve been given.
• We embrace Challenges If you prefer a job familiar with repetitive tasks and minor disruption, working at the AHLA is probably not for you.
• We are Stewards We must protect the reputation and assets our members have entrusted to the association, demonstrating our value of Stewardship .
• We have Fun If you want to work for us, bring your passion and enthusiasm, and prepare to have some fun!

In 2018, the AHLA implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to help us better execute our vision and instill clear focus, discipline, and accountability.

The EOS tools help us work more clearly and consistently to achieve better results.

Location and Office Hours :

This is a permanent, full-time position. The AHLA is in the Ellwood district of Southeast Edmonton and has free parking. Its standard business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 : 30 a.

m. to 4 : 30 p.m., with flexibility. This position is an in-person office role.

Compensation :

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Excellent vacation plan and personal care days
• Long-term disability, health, and dental benefits through the Canadian Hospitality Health Plan.
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP).
• Retirement savings plan.
• People-centered, positive work culture in a creative and entrepreneurial environment.

Pathfind is a full-service Talent Management firm offering professional services in Search, Leadership Coaching, and Career Transition / Outplacement.

We are a proud partner of Career Partners International.

The successful candidate must have legal authorization to work in Canada full-time for any employer. While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, we will contact only those selected for an interview.