SENIOR FINANCIAL ANALYST
ABOUT THE ALLIANCE
The Digital Research Alliance of Canada (the Alliance) serves Canadian researchers, with the objective of advancing Canada’s position as a leader in the knowledge economy on the international stage. By integrating, championing and funding the infrastructure and activities required for advanced research computing (ARC), research data management (RDM) and research software (RS), we provide the platform for the research community to access tools and services faster than ever before.
We have an ambitious mandate – to transform how research across all academic disciplines is organized, managed, stored and used. We work with other ecosystem partners and stakeholders across the country to help provide Canadian researchers with the support they need for leading-edge research excellence, research, innovation and advancement across all disciplines.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Financial Analyst plays a key role in the organization’s controllership and financial planning and analysis (FP&A) functions. The role is responsible for preparing, analyzing, and interpreting financial information to support sound financial management and decision-making.
The Senior Financial Analyst leads key components of the regular and year-end close processes, contributes to budgeting and forecasting, and serves as a trusted finance partner to assigned business operations. Working closely with the broader finance team, this role applies strong technical expertise, analytical judgment, and a continuous improvement mindset to day-to-day program accounting and financial management.
The Senior Financial Analyst is a member of the Corporate Services team and reports to the Senior Finance Manager.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial Operations
- Lead assigned components of the period-end close processes, including preparation of workbooks, journal entries, and completion of month-end close checklists.
- Act as a key finance user of the ERP system, supporting financial reporting, data integrity, and effective use of system functionality.
- Prepare and maintain reconciliations for assigned balance sheet accounts, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely resolution of variances.
- Support quarter-end and year-end reporting activities, including the preparation of schedules, analysis, and briefing materials for the Senior Finance Manager and the CFO.
- Participate in the year-end external audit process and prepare detailed working papers for assigned areas.
Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
- Lead the preparation and coordination of periodic financial forecasts, conducted at least quarterly and more frequently as required by the organization.
- Partner with Directors and senior stakeholders to gather forecast inputs, challenge assumptions, and ensure forecasts reflect current and emerging business realities.
- Lead and coordinate assigned components of the annual budgeting process.
- Prepare and maintain forecasts using Limelight, ensuring data integrity, consistency with the general ledger, and alignment with approved budgets.
- Analyze forecast results, including identification and explanation of material over- and under-variances relative to budget and prior forecasts.
- Prepare clear, concise forecast reports and variance analyses for management review, highlighting key drivers, risks, and opportunities.
- Apply professional judgment to assess forecast risks, sensitivities, and trends, and provide insight to support informed decision-making.
- Continuously improve forecasting processes, models, and reporting in collaboration with the finance team and stakeholders.
- Prepare ad hoc financial analysis and recommendations as assigned by the Senior Finance Manager and the CFO.
Payroll and Related Financial Activities
- Support payroll-related financial activities, including review and reconciliation of payroll-related accounts.
- Prepare payroll reporting and statutory administrative filings in accordance with applicable legislation (e.g., employer health taxes, workers’ compensation).
- Liaise with internal stakeholders and external service providers to support accurate and timely payroll processing and reporting.
- Collaborate with Human Resources to support payroll-related processes and continuous improvement initiatives.
Operational Excellence and Support
- Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, controls, and reporting efficiency, and contribute to their implementation.
- Develop, document, and implement financial procedures in collaboration with the Senior Finance Manager.
- Maintain confidentiality of financial information and sensitive organizational data.
- Perform cross-functional and/or other duties consistent with the job classification, as assigned or requested.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Post-secondary education in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA designation is strongly preferred.
- Minimum five (5) years of progressive experience in financial analysis, accounting, or FP&A, preferably within a not-for-profit, public sector, or complex funding environment.
- Strong knowledge of Canadian GAAP and experience applying professional judgment in financial analysis and reporting.
- Results-oriented professional with a strong focus on delivering accurate, timely, and high-quality outputs.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with a high degree of self-discipline and accountability in a permanently remote work-from-home environment.
- Proactive and effective communicator capable of translating financial data into clear, actionable information.
- Analytical, detail-oriented, and solution-focused, with sound professional judgment.
- Collaborative team player with the ability to contribute positively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Bilingual communication skills (English and French) are considered an asset.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other computer applications. Experience with NetSuite and/or other ERP systems is considered an asset.
BENEFITS / WORK PERKS
In addition to a competitive salary and a rewarding career where you can truly make a difference in the Canadian research community, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that meets the various needs of our diverse team and that spans across Canada, including:
- Comprehensive Benefits Plan, including:
- Health
- Dental
- Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness Spending Account
- Mental Health Supports
- Defined Benefit Pension Plan
- Paid Vacation
- Remote Work
The Alliance is strongly committed to equity and inclusion within the community and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women, members of racialized groups, people of colour, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous and 2SLGBTQIA+ identified people.
The expected salary range for this position for candidates residing in Canada is between $78,660 - $117,990 CAD. Placement within this range will be determined based on several factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience, demonstrated performance, and overall alignment with the requirements of the role. The range reflects the Alliance’s commitment to equitable pay practices and to ensuring fair compensation for all employees.
Please apply here: Careers at the Alliance!
