Build Something That Matters

The Jim Pattison Centre for Health Systems Learning and Innovation is advancing bold ideas that improve health systems and outcomes across British Columbia and beyond. As we continue to grow, we are building the internal capabilities required to support complex, multi-partner initiatives with discipline, insight, and impact. We are seeking a Director, Finance to build and lead our finance function at a pivotal stage in our evolution.

The Opportunity

This is not a traditional finance role. You will build the finance function from the ground up, transitioning key activities from external providers to an internal model, while establishing the systems, processes, and insights required to support a growing, multi-funder innovation environment. As a senior leader reporting to the Executive Director, you will act as a trusted advisor bringing financial clarity to strategic decisions while also operating as a hands-on leader, personally executing core financial activities in the near term. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys building, and is equally comfortable in the details and at the leadership table.

What You Will Do

Build (Year 1 Focus)

• Transition financial operations from external providers to an internal model
• Establish core financial processes, controls, and reporting frameworks
• Design and implement budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling capabilities
• Select and implement scalable financial systems and tools
• Lay the foundation for future finance team structure and growth

Operate

• Own day-to-day financial management, including all FP&A and accounting functions
• Deliver accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting
• Manage cash flow, funding agreements, and financial compliance requirements
• Lead audit preparation and coordination

Partner

• Provide financial insight and decision support to the Executive Director and leadership team
• Develop financial models to support strategic initiatives, funding opportunities, and program evaluation
• Build strong relationships with funders, partners, and financial institutions

Govern

• Establish and maintain financial policies, controls, and risk management practices
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, audit, and funding requirements
• Support reporting to the Board and Finance Committee

What You Bring

• CPA designation (or equivalent) 7-10+ years of progressive finance experience, including leadership roles
• Experience building or scaling a finance function in a complex or evolving environment
• Strong financial modelling, planning, and reporting capabilities
• Comfort operating in a lean, startup-like environment where you both lead and execute
• Experience working with multi-stakeholder or multi-funder environments (public sector, healthcare, not-for-profit, or innovation sectors preferred)
• Sound judgment, strong communication skills, and the ability to influence at a senior level

Who You Are

• A builder: you enjoy creating structure where it doesn’t yet exist
• A doer: you are willing to roll up your sleeves and own the details
• A strategic thinker : you connect financial insight to real-world decisions
• A trusted partner: you build credibility quickly and communicate with clarity
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and evolving priorities

Success in This Role

In your first 12 months, you will:

• Successfully transition finance from an outsourced to an internal model
• Establish reliable, timely financial reporting and controls
• Build the financial foundation required to support growth and complexity
• Become a trusted advisor to the Executive Director and leadership team

Over time, you will:

• Scale the finance function in line with organizational growth
• Strengthen financial insight and decision-making across the Centre
• Help ensure long-term financial sustainability and impact

Why This Role

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