Operations Controller

  • Location: Calgary, AB
  • Department: Finance

OVERVIEW

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Operations Controller with 8+ years of experience in finance and accounting, a CPA designation, and advanced knowledge of accounting principles to join our finance team. The ideal candidate thrives in a detail-oriented environment, demonstrates strong organizational skills, and takes full ownership of their work with a high level of accountability and professionalism. This role requires an independent self-starter with intrinsic motivation and a proven ability to deliver consistent, high-quality results. Key responsibilities include providing financial analysis and recommendations to enhance operational performance, managing financial risks and cash flow, overseeing budgets and forecasts, and ensuring compliance during reporting and closing processes. The Operations Controller will also streamline communication between Operations and shared services, support project management with actionable insights, and optimize financial systems and processes.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Analysis and Advisory

  • Conduct in-depth analyses of project financials, including revenue streams and cost structures.
  • Provide actionable recommendations to the Operations team to enhance financial performance.

Risk Management

  • Regularly assess financial risks associated with ongoing and upcoming projects.
  • Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to protect the organization’s interests.

Cash Flow Management

  • Create detailed cash flow projections and identify funding requirements for operational needs.
  • Analyze various financing scenarios to support strategic decision-making.

Liaison with Shared Services

  • Streamline communication between Operations and the shared services group for efficient collaboration.
  • Ensure operational requests are accurately interpreted and responded to in a timely manner.

Support for Project Management

  • Assist in the preparation of operational reports and dashboards for Project Managers.
  • Provide insights on performance variances to support project delivery and accountability.

Monthly Reporting

  • Generate comprehensive monthly reports comparing actual performance against budget forecasts.
  • Highlight significant variances and provide explanations to facilitate informed discussions with stakeholders.

Communication and Reporting

  • Develop and present weekly financial updates to key stakeholders, focusing on trends and insights.
  • Foster open lines of communication to address financial performance questions or concerns promptly.

Data Analysis and Management

  • Create and maintain financial models to support strategic initiatives and project evaluations.
  • Ensure accuracy and integrity of project data within various information systems and databases.

Billing Process Oversight

  • Monitor and optimize the billing process to ensure timely and accurate invoicing.
  • Coordinate with other departments to resolve billing discrepancies and improve cash flow.

Month-End and Year-End Closing

  • Assist in the preparation of financial statements and reports during month-end and year-end closing.
  • Ensure compliance with revenue recognition policies and validate that all revenue is accounted for.

Budgeting and Forecasting

  • Collaborate with Operations leaders to develop realistic budgets aligned with strategic objectives.
  • Analyze budget variances and provide insights to refine future forecasting efforts.

Project Oversight

  • Review and confirm project openings and modifications to ensure adherence to financial guidelines.
  • Track project performance metrics to ensure compliance with budget and schedule.

Accounting Information Systems Management

  • Manage the accounting information system and ensure data integrity across platforms.
  • Lead training sessions for team members on system functionality and best practices.

Performance Management Support

  • Contribute to the performance review process by providing financial performance insights.
  • Assist in identifying training needs and professional development opportunities for staff.

Qualifications:

  • Education: Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field; CPA designation.
  • Proven Experience: 8+ years in financial analysis or operations management, preferably within the construction or project management sectors.
  • Technical Knowledge: Proficient in financial modeling, variance analysis, and familiarity with accounting information systems; strong understanding of financial reporting standards and risk management principles.

EDUCATION

Beneficial
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance
  • Master's degree in Executive MBA

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS

Beneficial
  • Chartered Accountant
  • Certified Public Account