Director of Finance

The Surrey School District respectfully acknowledges that our schools reside on the traditional, unceded, and shared territories of Coast Salish peoples: The q̓íc̓əy̓ - Katzie, the q̓ʷa:n̓ƛ̓ən̓- Kwantlen and the SEMYOME - Semiahmoo First Nations, who have been stewards of this land since time immemorial.

Surrey Schools is the largest BC school district and the second‑largest employer in Surrey. Surrey Schools provides quality education to over 82,000 students with 124 school sites and a variety of other learning facilities, offering a broad range of innovative programs and services to support the learning of our students. The Surrey School District team of approximately 13,000 employees works tirelessly every day to ensure that children are getting the best start they can, providing the preparation to be our leaders of tomorrow.

Our Commitment Providing quality education extends beyond academic excellence; we are committed to creating and cultivating diverse, inclusive, and barrier‑free environments for all applicants, employees, students, and their families.

Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion & Values Our identity, as Surrey Schools, is expressed in the shared values of openness, fairness and belonging and recognizes the importance of diversity of identity and thought. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We are committed to removing barriers and creating a workplace where everyone, regardless of their background, feels empowered to contribute their best.

Join us in our mission to provide the best start for children, preparing them to be the leaders of tomorrow. If you are passionate about education, diversity, and making a positive impact, we invite you to explore opportunities with Surrey Schools.

Job Summary The Director of Finance provides leadership and vision for the provision of financial and business administrative services to the Board of Education of School District No. 36 (Surrey). The position ensures the effective management, oversight, and delivery of financial and payroll functions including budgeting, forecasting, accounting and financial reporting, capital accounting, payroll and benefits.

This position is responsible for developing and executing both strategic and operational plans for the delivery of financial services and ensuring alignment with the Board of Education’s mission, goals and priorities. Key areas of active leadership include overseeing the annual budgeting process, financial reporting to internal and external parties, the annual external audit function, Board policies and administrative procedures, financial information systems and management, as well as budget monitoring, forecasting and financial analysis.

The Director of Finance reports to the Assistant Secretary‑Treasurer and assists with additional duties and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time.

Responsibilities Provides leadership and direction to the Senior Manager of Budget and Forecasting, Senior Manager of Fiscal Management Services, and Associate Director, Payroll and Benefits.

Budgeting, Forecasting, and Financial Reporting

Oversee the development and administration of annual and amended budgets in accordance with the Board of Education and Ministry of Education requirements.

Monitor organizational/departmental budget and actual expenditures, analyze variances and communicate results to senior leadership & Board of Education.

Collaborate with senior leadership to enhance budgeting, forecasting, reporting and position control processes.

Provide both budget and financial analysis, advice and support on strategic and operational matters.

Prepare reports and presentations for senior management and the Board of Education.

Provide analysis and recommendations on significant financial and operational matters.

Support student enrollment projections, staffing budget development and routine reconciliation of staffing and salary expenditures.

Accounting and Financial Reporting

Oversee all accounting operations, including financial reporting, audit coordination and cash flow management.

Ensure compliance with all legislative requirements, accounting standards, and organizational policies.

Oversee the process of maintaining accurate financial records and implement systems of internal controls.

Lead the development and maintenance of financial policies and administrative procedures.

Maximize investment income through effective cash and investment management program as defined through Board policies and administrative procedures.

Payroll and Benefit Accounting

Provide strategic oversight of payroll and benefits function, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with collective agreements and statutory requirements.

Ensure effective payroll accounting, reporting, reconciliations, and financial analysis.

Monitor and analyze employees’ benefits programs, including claims and cost projections.

Maintain strong internal controls and reporting processes for District payroll and benefits.

Capital Accounting and Financial Services

Provide oversight of capital finance functions in collaboration with the Executive Director of Capital Projects Office.

Ensure effective monitoring of capital project budgets, funding, reporting and audit requirements.

Oversee Capital Fund accounting, School Site acquisitions, and project reconciliations and capital cash‑flow management and reviews all capital lease recommendations.

Administration

Support the development and implementation of departmental goals, performance measures, and procedures and initiatives.

Participate in senior leadership, Board, and committee meetings.

Represent the District on internal and external committees and professional associations.

Foster staff development, professional growth and continuous improvement.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications Education & Experience

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.

Minimum of 10 years of progressive financial leadership experience in a complex, unionized environment, including at least 5 years of supervisory experience, preferably within a large public sector organization.

Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of accounting, auditing, payroll, and budgeting.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

Knowledge of public/government administration environment, particularly in the public education sector and the requirements around financial, risk management and governance matters.

Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and implement solutions to financial and operational issues of a highly strategic nature.

Well‑developed interpersonal, organizational, communication, and presentation skills.

Proven ability to supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff performance.

Knowledge of labour relations, interpreting and assisting with contract and labour issues.

What We're Offering

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Extended Medical, Vision and Dental

Life Insurance, Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability

Employee Family Assistance Program

Municipal Pension

13 Paid Holidays, plus Sick & Vacation Time

Supportive workplace with a positive and productive work environment. Feel a sense of security and safety to act, speak, and reflect who you are

The salary range for this position is $179,330 - $199,256 per year with comprehensive benefits package and Municipal Pension. Placement in the salary range is determined by an assessment of qualifications and ability to meet the key requirements of the job, and consideration of internal equity comparisons. The midpoint of the range represents an employee that possesses full job knowledge, qualifications, and experience for the position.

Qualified applicants can apply by clicking the "apply" button to the right of the posting. The closing date for this position is July 2, 2026 at 4:00pm.

Surrey Schools recognizes the importance of accessibility and supporting the diverse needs of our community. If there is any accommodation you may require for your interview, whether related to accessibility or otherwise, please do not hesitate to advise and we will make every effort to meet your needs.

Note Successful applicants will be required to consent to a Criminal Records Search prior to employment. Only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. To all others, thank you for your interest.

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