Director of Finance

Director of Finance

Are you a strategic financial leader who brings clarity to complexity and enjoys supporting non-financial colleagues with insight and patience? Do you thrive in environments where innovation and collaboration are valued? If so, this may be your next great opportunity. 

On behalf of our client Shawnigan Lake School, TallSky Consulting Group is seeking a Director of Finance to oversee and evolve the financial operations of both the School and the Shawnigan Lake School Foundation. Reporting to the Chief Financial and Operating Officer (CFOO), the Director will lead with a collaborative, service-oriented approach, contributing to the excellence vibrant life of one of Canada’s most well-respected independent boarding schools.

Why Join Shawnigan Lake School?

Located on a stunning 270-acre campus on Vancouver Island, Shawnigan offers an environment where professional excellence meets community connection. At Shawnigan Lake School, your work contributes to shaping future leaders while you benefit from: 

• Competitive Salary: $120,000 - $145,000 annually commensurate with experience
• Work-Life Balance: Easy commutes from Victoria, Langford, or the Cowichan Valley
• Family-Friendly Perks: Tuition discount (based on eligibility), on-campus Montessori preschool, and family events
• Wellness Benefits: Access to school facilities (gyms, arena, waterfront), subsidized meals, and wellness activities.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, health or lifestyle spending account and RRSP contribution program
• Career Growth: Opportunities for leadership development, and professional advancement.
• A Caring Culture: Join a community grounded in curiosity, compassion, courage, and connection 

You’ll work on a lively campus that hosts multiple events each month, many of which welcome staff and families. It is a place where your role isn’t just a job, but a meaningful contribution to a thriving school community. 

About the Role

This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on leadership. You’ll ensure sound systems, reliable forecasting, and efficient reporting, while also acting as a trusted advisor to staff, administrators, and faculty. Whether supporting budget planning, advising on capital initiatives, or helping a department head understand financial reports, your ability to explain concepts clearly and build trust will be key to your success. 

What You’ll Do

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounting, payroll, benefits, and capital asset management
• Lead budgeting and forecasting cycles, providing strategic insight and variance analysis
• Communicate complex financial concepts clearly to internal stakeholders, especially those without financial backgrounds
• Manage dual-entity compliance, CRA reporting, audit preparation, and investment oversight
• Champion cross-departmental initiatives like digital process integration and capital project planning
• Supervise and mentor team members, including the Controller and Purchaser & Commissary Manager.
• Foster effective change management practices and adapt financial systems to meet evolving needs.

To learn more about this role and what your day may hold, be sure to review the full Job Description.

What You Bring

• CPA designation and 6 years of progressive financial leadership experience, ideally in the not-for-profit, education, or independent school sector.
• Proven experience managing dual-entity financial structures, restricted funds, and CRA and ASNPO compliance
• Proven success in leading process improvements and systems automation that enhance efficiency across departments
• Proficiency with Excel and working knowledge of Google Workspace tools
• Strong communication skills, with an ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Highly organized with the ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• A collaborative, proactive leadership style grounded in service and continuous improvement

Shawnigan Lake School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff (and volunteers) to share this commitment. Candidates will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with previous employers and a vulnerable sector criminal record check.

Shawnigan Lake School is an equal opportunity employer committed to establishing an inclusive, equitable, and accessible environment for all. They believe that diversity makes them stronger, and they welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

How to Apply

Please forward a resume and cover letter specifically expressing your interest in working at Shawnigan Lake School to TallSky Consulting. 

This position will remain open until it is filled. We thank all applicants; however, after the initial acknowledgement, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.