Assistant Manager, Development Accounting

At Arbutus Properties, our ambition is to build lasting communities that foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity, where people feel genuinely connected to the places they live. As a leading residential and commercial real estate development company, we are seeking a motivated, detail‑oriented accounting professional to join our team. We offer a dynamic work environment, a competitive compensation and benefits package, and meaningful opportunities for professional growth and advancement. If you are passionate about real estate and thrive in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment, we encourage you to apply.
What’s in it for you!
Competitive Wages
Extended Health and dental coverage
Healthcare and Lifestyle Spending Account
Employee Assistance Program
RRSP/TFSA matching
Life insurance
Paid Training and development opportunities
Discretionary bonus
And more.
Position OverviewThe Assistant Manager, Development Accounting will support Arbutus Properties with the oversight and execution of day‑to‑day accounting activities across development and corporate accounting functions. This is an opportunity for an experienced accounting professional to step into a leadership role in a dynamic and rapidly growing real estate development company. The successful candidate will be based out of Vancouver, BC, reporting to the Senior Manager, Development Accounting, and will provide direct oversight to the Project Accountant.
ResponsibilitiesDevelopment Accounting
Review and oversee job cost ledgers across active developments, ensuring accurate tracking, reconciliation, and coding of actual costs vs. approved budgets (soft and hard costs).
Lead preparation and maintenance of project budgets and cost‑to‑complete forecasts in collaboration with construction teams;
review monthly updates prepared by the Project Accountant for accuracy and completeness.
Prepare and review variance analysis to identify cost overruns and trends;
communicate findings and cash flow implications to the Senior Manager and relevant stakeholders.
Own preparation and review of monthly draw packages for lenders (including cost summaries, lien holdbacks, and supporting documentation);
oversee tracking and reconciliation of holdbacks and release schedules.
Oversee vendor payables management and cash flow planning;
review and consolidate cash flow forecasts at both corporate and project levels, escalating funding concerns as needed.
Own preparation and review of invoices for accuracy, GL coding, and compliance with internal approval workflows and cost controls.
Own preparation and review of management reporting packages, including project job cost reports and budget vs. actual analysis, for presentation to the Senior Manager.
Oversee project capitalization and transition to income‑producing property;
lead final cost reporting and post‑project analysis on completed developments.
Identify and implement improvements to job cost systems, cost codes, and reporting tools;
lead and oversee the implementation and optimization of accounting and project management systems.
Corporate Accounting
Review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, GL account analysis, and subledger reconciliations prepared by the Project Accountant;
lead and oversee the execution of multi‑entity consolidations, as required.
Oversee month‑end close, including review of journal entries, accruals, bank reconciliations, fixed asset schedules, intercompany transactions, and cost allocations between entities and projects.
Ensure financial records and working papers are maintained to assurance‑ready standards year‑round;
lead preparation of working papers and coordinate responses to external assurance requests;
ensure compliance with tax, regulatory, and lender reporting requirements.
Own the coordination of tax compliance and ensuring required information is complete and timely.
Identify opportunities to streamline accounting operations, strengthen internal controls, and document and enforce accounting policies and procedures.
Provide direct supervision and mentorship to the Project Accountant, including work review, performance feedback, and training;
lead and oversee the execution of onboarding new team members and assist with implementation of new accounting software and tools as needed.
Experience and Qualifications
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) or Diploma in Accounting, or equivalent.
CPA designation or active enrollment in the CPA PEP program is a strong asset.
5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory or senior accounting role;
real estate developmentexperience preferred.
Advanced proficiency in Excel and Word;
experience with Yardi and/or QuickBooks Online is an asset.
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and elevate appropriately.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong relationship‑building abilities and a high degree of professionalism and discretion.
Highly organized and detail‑oriented, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
Proven people leader and self‑starter with a willingness to mentor others and adapt to change.
Arbutus Properties is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We welcome applicants that reflect this diversity.
We respectfully acknowledge that we are situated on the traditional territories of the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Tsuut’ina, Îyârhe Nakoda, Nehiyaw, Dëne Sųłiné, Dane‑zaa, Nakota Sioux. These lands are subject to Treaties 4,6,7,8, and 10, and have long served as meeting grounds, travel routes, and gathering places for many diverse First Nations including the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee, as well as Métis, and Inuit peoples. We recognize all these Nations and communities, whose rich histories, languages, cultures, and traditions continue to thrive and are key to the enrichment of all our communities.
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