Manager, Operational and Corporate Accounting

At Arbutus Properties, our ambition is to build lasting communities based on a sense of belonging and inclusivity that makes people feel a genuine part of where they live. As a leading residential and commercial development company, were seeking an enthusiastic, detail-driven problem-solver to join our team. Youll lead the accounting function for our growing portfolios, ensuring everything runs smoothly while having fun in the process.

We offer a dynamic work environment, attractive compensation and benefits package, and vast opportunity for advancement. If you love working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and want the excitement of working with businesses in different industries, we want you on our team!

Position Overview

You will manage the financial aspects of multiple operations located in Canada and in the US by being responsible for the full-cycle accounting, tax compliance, and investor reporting for these entities. You will be relied upon by senior management to recommend and implement processes and procedures for accurate reporting, general ledger maintenance, effective cost control, tax planning and corporate governance.

This role requires a healthy understanding of good accounting practices.

This position will have dual reporting responsibilities to the Director, IPP and Development Accounting and to the CFO.

There is never a dull moment here, so be prepared the roll up your sleeves to get to know the business, make recommendations for improvement, and lead by example. If you believe in working with passionate individuals whose core values include ingenuity, thoughtfulness, tenacity and prosperity, you belong with us.

Key Functions & Responsibilities

1. Accounting Operations

• Review monthly reconciliations prepared by junior staff, such as GST returns, credit card reconciliations, intercompany transactions and expense reports
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly financial reports by following month end closing processes.
• Assist with the proper allocation of payroll from the corporate entities to the other entities in the Company group.
• Report the financial implications of operational events and issues.
• Manage commercial tenant relationships and correspondence, such as being their point of contact, managing CAM allocations, and issuing notices pursuant to the commercial lease agreement.
• Review lease contracts for compliance and ensure proper accounting for lease renewals, escalations, and adjustments (e.g., rent increases, concessions).
• Day-to-day accounting as needed, including preparing journal entries and entering invoices in an accurate and timely manner.

2. Reporting & Analysis:

• Prepare financial statements for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure timely tax filings, such as corporate taxes, GST returns and property tax.
• Assist with insurance renewals, and other compliance-related activities.
• Perform financial risk assessments and conduct internal audits.
• Liaise with external advisors such as tax, legal, and other consultants.
• Coordinate with external auditors and tax compliance teams for year-end reporting to provide the necessary working papers and follow up as required.

3. Budgeting & Forecasting:

• Develop budgets, forecasts, and proformas.
• Monitor financial performance against budgeted figures and provide explanations for variances
• Make recommendations for cost-saving measures or revenue optimization.

4. Cash Flow Management:

• Monitor cash flow from multiple businesses to ensure sufficient liquidity for expenses, debt service, and capital expenditures
• Prepare weekly and monthly cash flow projections, includingmonitoring, prioritizing, and communicating vendor payments.
• Ensure that all property-related cash receipts and disbursements are accurately recorded and reconciled on a timely basis.

5. Team Leadership & Collaboration:

• Lead and mentor staff, providing guidance, training, and support. Ensure adherence to internal control policies and accounting best practices.
• Work closely with divisional managers to ensure operational reporting is produced regularly, accurately, and aligned with corporate standards.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, including leveraging technology to optimize the teams productivity, performance, and communication.
• Provide support as needed to implement corporate strategy.

Key Criteria:

• Education: A Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. CPA or similar certification is preferred.
• Experience: At least 5 years of accounting experience, with 2 years as a manager. Public practice experience is highly valued and real estate experience an asset!
• Technical Skills:
  • Tech-Savvy: Proficiency in Yardi platform and QBO, with strong Excel skills.
  • Analytical Mindset: Strong financial analysis skills and a knack for spotting trends, identifying inefficiencies, and finding opportunities for improvement.
  • Tax proficiency: Corporate tax experience preferred.
• Soft Skills
  • Leadership Skills:Willingness to lead and inspire a team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
  • Strong Communicator: Clear and engaging communication style to articulate financial data in a way that excites and informs.
  • Resourceful: You may not have the answer, but you are driven to figure out the options and recommend a path forward.
  • Strong work ethic: Conscientious, attention to detail, and proud of the work that you produce and oversee.
  • Resilient: Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Key Reasons to Join Us:

• Dynamic Environment: We are fast-paced and growth mindset oriented. With multiple projects and initiatives underway, you wont be bored here.
• Growth Opportunities: Were growing fast, and so can your career! Take on new challenges, gain valuable experience, and develop your skills.
• Work-Life Balance: We understand the importance of life outside of work, offering flexibility and benefits to support a healthy work-life balance.
• Team Spirit: We believe we enrich our communities by being a good friend and we pay attention and consider other people when we speak and act. Were simply better together!