Executive Director, Finance

Executive Director, FinanceLocation:
Kingston, Ontario, Hybrid (minimum 3 days on-site)Language:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in EnglishBackground Check Requirement:
Criminal Sector Check
About the OpportunityThis is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Finance executive to help lead a significant organizational transformation within a large, complex post-secondary institution. As Executive Director, Integrated Finance Services, you'll play a pivotal role in launching a new service delivery model, bringing together Finance teams, strengthening partnerships and creating a more consistent, responsive approach to financial services.
This role calls for more than technical Finance expertise. You'll be a visible, empathetic leader who can navigate change, build trust with senior stakeholders and create a strong sense of team identity. You'll balance strategic oversight with hands‑on execution, ensuring the new operating model delivers meaningful results for the people and departments it supports.
What's In It for You
An opportunity to operationalize a significant Finance transformation with institution-wide impact.
A collaborative environment where relationship‑building, thoughtful leadership and continuous improvement are valued.
The chance to develop high‑performing leaders, influence executive decisions and build a service‑oriented team culture.
Enjoy a competitive total rewards package, including comprehensive health and wellness benefits, free day care for families, and a generous pension plan designed to support your long‑term financial well‑being.
Your Responsibilities
You’ll lead the implementation and continuous improvement of an integrated Finance operating model, translating strategic priorities into effective service delivery across multiple portfolios.
You’ll oversee Finance Directors and their teams, establishing clear accountability, service standards, governance frameworks, performance measures and escalation protocols.
You’ll monitor service quality, responsiveness, operational capacity and client outcomes, identifying systemic challenges and driving timely corrective action.
You’ll oversee cross‑portfolio resource planning, workload distribution and capacity management, balancing competing priorities and addressing organizational risks.
You’ll provide executive‑level advice on financial performance, institutional budgeting, forecasting, reporting, internal controls and emerging financial or operational risks.
You’ll build trusted relationships with senior academic and administrative leaders, navigating sensitive stakeholder dynamics, influencing decisions and strengthening confidence in Finance services.
You’ll coach, mentor and develop senior Finance leaders, fostering accountability, succession planning, collaboration and a strong, service‑focused team culture.
You’ll lead the implementation of Finance transformation initiatives, process standardization, automation and enterprise systems improvements, ensuring successful adoption and measurable benefits.
You’ll champion continuous improvement through service reviews, performance data, stakeholder feedback and risk assessments, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Skills and Qualifications
10+ years of progressive senior Finance leadership experience within a large, complex organization, including oversight of multiple Finance functions and leadership through Directors or senior managers.
University degree in Finance, Accounting, Commerce, Business Administration or a related field, along with a CPA or equivalent recognized professional accounting designation.
Extensive expertise in institutional budgeting, forecasting, financial modelling, enterprise reporting, financial controls, risk management and complex funding or revenue structures.
Proven experience implementing large‑scale Finance transformations, shared services or integrated operating models, including service governance, performance frameworks and organizational change.
Strong understanding of enterprise Finance systems, process automation and technology‑enabled improvements, with the ability to assess implementation effectiveness and operational impact.
Demonstrated success advising and influencing executive stakeholders, building consensus across diverse business units and navigating complex organizational environments.
Proven ability to lead and develop high‑performing management teams, establish clear performance expectations, manage organizational capacity and foster an inclusive, collaborative culture.
Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical judgment and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to identify systemic risks, balance competing priorities and translate strategy into operational results.
Strong relationship‑building, communication and change leadership skills, with the confidence to challenge constructively, navigate resistance and lead with empathy.
Experience within post‑secondary education, healthcare, government, research‑intensive institutions or similarly complex, multi‑stakeholder organizations is strongly preferred.
We appreciate the time and effort all applicants invest in their submissions. Please note that only candidates shortlisted for this role will be contacted directly. However, your profile will remain under consideration for future opportunities that align with your experience and career goals. All qualified applicants will receive fair consideration for employment. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities including those who identify as women, members of racialized groups, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. If you require an accommodation, please review our accessibility policy and reach out to our accessibility officer with any questions.
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