OMS Montessori / The Element High School is a well-established, independent, not-for-profit school located in a beautiful residential area in central Ottawa. Serving more than 300 students from Toddler through Grade 12, our school is supported by a dedicated team of over 80 staff who are committed to providing an exceptional education guided by Montessori philosophy and a collaborative community culture.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Finance Manager to join our administrative team in a permanent, full-time position, beginning as soon as possible.
Reporting to the Head of School, the Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing the school's day-to-day financial operations while providing sound financial management, analysis, and strategic support. This role is ideal for a collaborative professional who enjoys working in a mission-driven, not-for-profit educational environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the school's accounting and financial reporting functions.
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
- Lead the annual budgeting process and support long-term financial planning and forecasting.
- Monitor budgets and provide financial analysis and recommendations to support decision-making.
- Ensure accurate and timely maintenance of all financial records in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
- Prepare month-end and year-end journal entries, reconciliations, and working papers.
- Perform monthly bank reconciliations and oversee cash flow management.
- Coordinate the annual external audit and serve as the primary liaison with auditors.
- Manage grant reporting and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
- Oversee payroll processing and period end reporting
- Ensure compliance with Canada Revenue Agency requirements and other regulatory obligations applicable to not-for-profit organizations.
- Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls, policies, and procedures.
- Support governance activities by preparing financial information for senior leadership and the Board of Directors, as required.
- Contribute to strategic planning and organizational initiatives.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the Head of School/designate.
- The role has two direct reports.
Qualifications
- College diploma or university degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of five years of progressive accounting or financial management experience.
- Experience in a not-for-profit or charitable organization is strongly preferred.
- Experience in the education sector is considered an asset.
- CPA designation or progress toward a CPA designation is considered an asset.
- Experience using Sage 300 Accounting (formerly Simply Accounting) or comparable accounting software.
- Strong knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, payroll reconciliation, and audit preparation.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while managing responsibilities independently.
- Knowledge of governance practices and strategic planning is considered an asset.
- Bilingualism is considered an asset.
Why Join OMS Montessori / The Element High School?
At OMS Montessori / The Element High School, you will become part of a welcoming and collaborative community dedicated to supporting students, families, and colleagues. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a respected independent school while helping ensure its long-term financial sustainability.
We offer a competitive compensation package, including salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
OMS Montessori / The Element High School is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: From $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- RRSP match
Work Location: In person
