CFO - Nonprofit

CFO – Chief Financial Officer

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead the financial stewardship of a well-established, not-for-profit organization.

This national charitable organization focuses on conservation through scientific research, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. Supported by donors, passionate staff, and a large volunteer network, it collects and analyzes data to monitor ecological trends and guide conservation priorities.

Operating with a $15 million annual budget and headquartered in Ontario, the non-for-profit organization applies a comprehensive approach that integrates environmental science, habitat considerations, and public participation.

The organization is known for its highly committed, mission-driven workforce. Employees report strong job satisfaction, a collaborative culture, and clear alignment with organizational values. Many team members have long tenures, offering continuity and deep institutional expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Strategy & Leadership
• Lead financial planning, FP&A, annual budgeting, and forecasting.
• Provide timely, accurate, and insightful financial reporting for leadership and the Board.
• Strengthen financial systems, processes, and controls to support organizational growth and compliance.
• Serve as the internal expert on financial management, offering training and guidance to enhance financial literacy across teams.

Operational & Regulatory Oversight

• Oversee payroll, accounts payable/receivable, treasury, and full-cycle accounting.
• Lead the annual audit process and maintain compliance with provincial, federal, U.S., and charitable regulations.
• Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks.
• Review and approve contracts, procurement, and expenditures within established thresholds.
• Investment & Stakeholder Engagement
• Work with investment advisors to monitor portfolio performance, including responsible investing considerations.
• Present financial reports and budgets to the Finance & Audit Committee and the Board.
• Clearly communicate the organization’s financial story to internal and external stakeholders.

Team Leadership

• Lead and support the Finance team, including recruitment, coaching, and performance management.
• Collaborate with program directors and VPs across Canada on budgeting and financial oversight.

Key Priorities for the First 12–18 Months

• Align financial reporting, systems, and team structure with the new Strategic Plan.
• Strengthen operating reserves and long-term financial sustainability.
• Build trust and alignment across the organization.
• Enhance financial processes, policies, and compliance frameworks—including support for emerging international initiatives.

Qualifications

• 7–10+ years of senior financial leadership experience within a registered charity or non-profit organization.
• Proven success modernizing financial processes and leading organizational change.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate financial information for non-finance audiences.
• Prepares and leads the annual audit
• Proficiency with modern accounting systems (cloud-based preferred)
• University degree in business/ finance or MBA.
• Chartered Professional Accountant – CPA (CA, CGA CMA) designation
• Strong strategic, analytical, and organizational skills; proactive and solutions-oriented.

Assets

• Experience with international programs or Global Affairs Canada-funded projects
• Experience working with investment advisors
• Spanish language skills
• Experience with Financial Edge / Raiser’s Edge (Blackbaud) would be an asset.

Compensation & Benefits

• Full time position with flexible/ remote work arrangements
• Compensation: $120-140K plus 5% RRSP matching after 1 year
• 4-week vacation plus 3 paid days end of December
• Opportunities for Professional Development
• Extended health coverage