Identifying Information

Job Title: Controller

Location: Transition Place, Edmonton
Reports To: Director of Finance
Job Type: Permanent Full-Time

Direct Report: Manager, Payroll and Finance

Organization Summary:

For over 100 years, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has promoted mental health for everyone. Today, we support the resiliency and recovery of people experiencing mental illness and their families in 330 communities across Canada. Locally, CMHA Edmonton offers the most comprehensive set of community mental health programs for individuals and families affected by mental health and related issues, like abuse, violence, and suicide, living in Edmonton and Northern Alberta. Tens of thousands of people depend on CMHA Edmonton for peer and family support, self-advocacy assistance, affordable housing, suicide bereavement, community education and training, and helplines like the Distress Line, 9-8-8, and 2-1-1. CMHA Edmonton currently has an operating budget over $10 million and assets over $12 million, including endowments, reserves, and buildings. To learn more about us, please visit our website.

Position Summary:

The Controller serves as a key financial leader within the organization, entrusted with both the efficient and proficient management of day-to-day financial operations and contributing to departmental and organizational financial strategies. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Controller plays a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and integrity of the organization. This dual-capacity position bridges operational execution and strategic foresight, providing a strong foundation for sound financial decision-making.

On the transactional side, the Controller oversees all core accounting functions, including accounts payable and receivable, payroll administration, bank and account reconciliations, and general ledger management. The Controller ensures the timely and accurate execution of the monthly and annual close processes, prepares financial statements in accordance with accounting standards, and ensures compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements.

From a strategic perspective, the Controller leads the development and monitoring of budgets, forecasts, and financial models. They work closely with executive leadership and departmental heads to analyze financial performance, identify risks and opportunities, and support key organizational initiatives with robust financial analysis. The Controller also plays a critical role in strengthening internal controls, optimizing financial systems, improving reporting tools, and developing policies that enhance the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of the organizations financial operations.

In addition to financial stewardship, the Controller provides leadership to the finance team, fostering professional development, accountability, and a high standard of excellence. As a trusted advisor to senior management, the Controller ensures that financial insights are accessible, actionable, and aligned with the organizations mission, values, and strategic direction.

Key Responsibilities:
Accounting Operations & Financial Reporting

Manage all accounting operations including Billing, A/R, A/P, General Ledger, Cost Accounting, and Revenue Recognition.

Prepare and publish timely monthly financial statements.

Ensure quality control over financial transactions and financial reporting.

Lead year-end processes and work with external auditors and tax consultants.

Monitor cash flow, investment strategies, and risk management activities.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Analysis

Coordinate and direct the preparation of the annual budget and financial forecasts; report variances and recommend corrective actions.

Provide financial analysis and recommendations to senior leadership for strategic planning.

Develop and maintain financial models and scenario analyses.

Internal Controls & Compliance

Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls.

Oversee audits and ensure compliance with provincial/federal regulations and internal policies.

Team Leadership

Supervise finance staff, including hiring, training, mentoring, and performance management.

Foster a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement and professional development.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Masters or CPA designation preferred)

5+ years of progressive experience in accounting or finance roles

Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial regulations

Experience with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage, NetSuite, or similar)

Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and team management.

Proficient in Excel and financial systems; ERP system experience preferred.

Familiarity with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations and charitable giving.

Core Competencies:
Financial Acumen

Deep understanding of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and analysis.

Applies financial knowledge to guide decision-making and improve organizational performance.

Integrity and Accountability

Adheres to high ethical standards, ensuring transparency and honesty in all financial dealings.

Takes ownership of responsibilities and outcomes, consistently delivering on commitments and striving for excellence.

Strategic Thinking

Uses data and insights to help leadership and management see the big picture, anticipate future trends, and align financial operations to support organizational goals.

Thoughtfully considers the needs of management, staff, and stakeholders to enable sustainable growth, increase efficiency, and nurture positive relationships.

Leadership and Team Development

Inspires, mentors, and supports the growth of team members to reach their full potential.

Builds a strong, collaborative, and performance-driven finance team.

Communication and Collaboration

Clearly conveys complex financial information to non-financial audiences.

Builds trust among and influences stakeholders through effective, respectful communication, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

Work Conditions:

Office environment - working from office

Occasional overtime during peak periods such as fiscal year-end

Collaboration with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders