Director of Finance and Administration

Director of Finance and Administration

About Sacred Heart School of Halifax

A top independent school in Atlantic Canada, and one of Nova Scotia's only Catholic schools, Sacred Heart School of Halifax has been teaching the whole child - mind, body, and spirit - for over 176 years. Our iconic campus in the heart of Halifax offers a diamond model of education: co-ed in JP-Grade 6, single-gender in Grades 7-9, and co-ed in Grades 10-12. With a network of schools around the world, a rich and proud history, and a strong and unique set of core values, we offer not just an education but an experience that is unparalleled in this region. Sacred Heart School of Halifax is proudly accredited by Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) and the Sacred Heart Commission on Goals (SHCOG). Visit us at www.shsh.ca.

About the Role

We are searching for a dynamic and strategic Director of Finance and Administration. The successful candidate will be responsible for a full range of key financial and operational activities, including overseeing the School's budget, operations, and human resources. Reporting to the Head of the School, this position is part of the School's Leadership Team and is responsible for supervising five direct reports.

Primary Duties

Finance

• Establish and oversee an effective budgeting process (operations, capital projects, annual tuition increases, financial aid budget, and salary plan increments) in consultation with the Leadership Team and the Board.
• Prepare all financial reports and statements, including those related to the budget, investments, and capital projects.
• Make presentations to the Head of School, Board, and committees as appropriate, and keep the Head of School and the Board informed as to the financial condition of the School.
• Guide the School's day-to-day operations and financial health through close collaboration with the Finance & Facilities Committees of the Board and the Leadership Team.
• Coordinate, prepare, and execute the annual year-end audit in partnership with an external auditor.
• Manage the Business Office and oversee all activities related to accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, employee benefit administration, general ledger, and reception.
• Oversee the financial assistance process in collaboration with the Head of School, Principals, and Director of Admissions.
• Ensure the preparation of all year-end receipts, such as charitable donation receipts, childcare non-instructional time tax receipts, and religious education donation receipts.
• Monitor and make recommendations regarding revenue and investments.
• Work with the external investment manager and the Finance Committee of the Board on the alignment of the School's investment portfolio and investment policy.
• Oversee response to financial queries from parents, employees, and contractors and address family financial issues.
• Maintain and nurture external banking, investment, and audit partnerships.
• Develop, review, and ensure adherence to financial and operational policies and procedures.
• Manage and oversee financial systems and controls to ensure regulatory compliance and segregation of duties.
• Work with the Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations to ensure accurate accounting of all fundraising initiatives.

Human Resources and Benefits

• Administer the employee salary and benefits programs.
• Coordinate staff employment agreements/contracts and benefit renewals.
• Oversee the maintenance, development, and compliance of the Human Resources policies and all related processes therein.
• Develop organizational strategy and objectives relating to the School's Human Resource functions.
• Oversee Human Resources processes like hiring, onboarding, time-off, leaves, performance management, discipline, and employee surveys.
• Support and counsel leaders in managing employee relations matters, consult with legal counsel as appropriate, and provide mediation when necessary.
• Work directly with the Leadership Team on personnel matters.
• Ensure compliance with provincial and federal laws, as well as with CAIS standards.

Strategic Leadership

• Provide meaningful business/performance indicators to assist the Leadership Team in making strategic decisions.
• Work with the Head of School, Leadership Team, and the Board of Governors to develop and execute both short and long-range financial plans.
• Work with the Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations and the Leadership Team on philanthropic needs to ensure the School's financial health.
• Lead the School's Risk Management Program.
• Act as the point of contact for the Leadership Team on legal issues, organizational liability, and insurance matters.
• Work closely as part of the School's Leadership Team on the strategic direction and growth of the School.

Staff Supervision

• Manage the employees in the Business Office and provide guidance, coaching, and professional growth.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field.
• CPA designation required.
• A minimum of five years of experience in a similar financial management role.
• Previous not-for-profit experience is a strong asset, as is experience in an educational setting.
• Strong knowledge of all aspects of accounting and financial management.
• Experience leading and coaching teams.
• Familiarity working with and reporting to a Board.
• Clear communication style - ability to present financial information to School leadership, Board, and employees, including those with limited financial knowledge.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a small office setting.
• Ability to and interest in participating in school-based fundraising, engagement, and social events and activities that build relationships and community.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a positive and collaborative approach to work.
• Strategic thinker.
• Unflinching integrity and professionalism, along with the ability to handle confidential information sensitively.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational capabilities.
• Microsoft Office and Google Suite proficiency. Blackbaud experience is an asset.
• A clear and active commitment to the Sacred Heart goals, criteria, and educational philosophy is essential. This role is one of the School's primary ambassadors and requires a positive, warm, and outgoing person.

Interested applicants should send their résumé accompanied by a cover letter to [email protected]. The deadline to apply is November 21, 2025. Applications will be reviewed as they come in. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

We offer:

We offer a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including a parking spot, health and dental insurance, and a wonderful work environment.

We encourage applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians, and other racially visible persons, persons with disabilities, and women. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify in your cover letter or resume.

Conditions of Employment:

The successful candidate will be required to complete a Criminal Background Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Registry Clearance, in addition to a reference check.