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Job Purpose:The Assistant Director, Finance Operations & Client Services is responsible for the comprehensive management of the University’s integrated financial service delivery. This role oversees end-to-end payment and receivable processes, including the verification and payment of goods/services and expense reimbursements (Accounts Payable) and the assessment and collection of student tuition and fees (Student Accounts).
They ensure that both portfolios deliver exemplary customer service, maintain rigorous internal controls, and remain in strict compliance with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, Research, Excellence and Security (MCURES), Broader Public Sector (BPS) Directives, and Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
The Assistant Director assists in preparation of the year-end audit, being responsible for the preparation of audit documentation related to accounts payable and student accounts receivable. Works collaboratively with colleagues to provide a team approach in support of the regular reporting to departmental account managers.
Key Activities:Integrated Financial Operations- Accounts Payable: Manages the timely processing of supplier invoices, expense claims, and non-salary payments. Oversees weekly payment runs across multiple methods (EFT, Wire, Credit Card, Cheque).
- Revenue & Collections: Directs the collection of all student tuition and ancillary fees. Oversees proactive recovery plans.
- Cash Flow: Assists with cash flow projections and manages the integrated e-commerce payment platform, supporting approximately $65M in annual student transactions.
Compliance, Tax & Audit- Legislative Expert: Serves as the functional lead for HST/commodity tax compliance, T4A non-resident reporting, and BPS procurement directives.
- Audit Lead: Coordinates documentation for interim and year-end audits. Prepares bad debt analysis, account reconciliations, and variance reports for both Accounts Payable and Student Account portfolios.
- Risk Mitigation: Identifies operational risks and systemic issues, and assesses compliance with internal controls and University policies ensuring the integrity of financial data in the student system and the general ledger.
Student & Stakeholder Services- Escalation Management: Handles the most complex and sensitive inquiries/complaints from students, parents, and vendors. Employs expert de-escalation tactics to resolve disputes and protect the University’s reputation.
- Acts as an expert resource for faculty, staff and colleagues providing advice, information and training around external legislation and internal policies.
- Financial Counseling: Provides specialized counseling on payment plans and settles student account balances in exceptional situations.
- Communications: Oversees the Student Accounts and Accounts Payable websites, policy updates, and the outgoing messaging plan for students and vendors.
- Effectively manage and maintain relations and communications with outside agencies and vendors.
- Participates in working groups and committees.
Year-end Reporting