Mandate/Core Purpose Of The Role Reporting to the Associate Vice President, Finance and Operations (AVPFO), the Executive Director, Financial Services is responsible for the strategic and effective development, implementation and oversight of core business policies, processes, information systems and services across the university (including accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking, expense reimbursement, payroll, research accounting and procurement) and financial reporting for UVic and its related entities. The Executive Director, Financial Services works with, and provides supports to, all areas of the university to ensure that these core business policies, processes, information systems and services meet the needs of the university community. implements and oversees safeguards and mechanisms to optimize the university’s financial assets, ensure effective internal controls, confirm compliance with related taxation and other legislation, and deliver overall accountability to stakeholders for use of resources. is expected to align the planning and goals with the VPFO portfolio (including Service Excellence and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB)), and the University’s institutional plans. Objective A core function of the position is to lead the strategic oversight and effective management of the core business functions across the university, including: accounts payable, expense claim reimbursement, accounts receivable, banking, payroll, research accounting, financial reporting, training and procurement. Develop and implement a department-wide strategic plan for the Financial Services units that supports the VPFO portfolio goals and institutional plans. Oversee the production and delivery of financial statements for the University and its 12 consolidated entities including endowment and pensions, internal management reporting and presentation of results to appropriate Boards and/or committees. Act as the lead change agent for developing relevant policies, implementing processes and supporting change across UVIC to deliver client focused services while optimizing the use of financial resources, managing university risk and making it as easy as possible for clients to complete core business functions in accordance with university policies. Lead the continued modernization of UVic’s core financial and administrative services, policies, and supporting systems. Develop and deliver education and other programs to ensure that clients across the university have the knowledge, tools and support to effectively complete their responsibilities with respect to core business functions. Provide support, leadership and counsel to the AVPFO on a range of issues and projects. Participate on a variety of UVIC committees, projects and initiatives. Work closely and collaboratively with members of Executive and other leaders across campus to support and advance the goals of colleagues and their departments. Work collaboratively with, and consult on an as needed basis with, the AVPFO and stakeholders when there is the potential for significant issues to arise that will affect the overall operations of the departments within the VPFO portfolio and across the university. Enhance the reputation of UVIC and Financial Services both on campus and to the external community through consistent provision of high quality service and a high degree of effective collaboration and service. This position requires an undergraduate degree (ideally Finance, Commerce, or Business), and a CPA Canada designation with a minimum of ten (10) years in senior management roles and progressive leadership experience in financial services with oversight of multiple units, with significant human and capital resources and a proven track record in process improvement, change management, longer-term planning, business and financial planning, and strategic resource management. Experience with procurement is an asset. A combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates the skills, capacity and knowledge required to be successful in the role will also be considered. Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong relationships within complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Proven ability to establish priorities and engage in effective short and long-term planning. Demonstrated success delivering innovative programs and services while managing available resources responsibly. Demonstrated ability to provide senior functional leadership for enterprise financial systems, including ERP initiatives and other digital enablement efforts leveraging emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence. Demonstrated ability to integrate sustainability and Environment Social and Governance factors into financial planning, procurement, and reporting processes. Experience or knowledge with climate-related financial disclosures or responsible procurement frameworks. Strong leadership capabilities, evidenced by a commitment to employee development, retention, and effective performance management practices. Ability to evaluate the impact of complex financial issues, systems, and processes within the broader institutional context. Ability to apply industry best practices in the development, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of financial policies, practices, and processes. Knowledge and experience in change management methodologies and their practical application. Knowledge and experience with financial technical systems and end-to-end financial processes. Experience managing or supporting high-volume operational environments while consistently maintaining high service quality. Demonstrated ability to build and sustain a culture of service excellence. Demonstrated ability and commitment to advancing meaningful outcomes in equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. #J-18808-Ljbffr