Associate Director, Finance Operations

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Director, Finance Operations, the Associate Director, Finance will be responsible for driving the ongoing evolution of our Procurement, Vendor Management and Pension Finance functions. Additionally, you will improve the established processes by applying your expertise in problem solving, internal control, relationship management and process innovation/automation. 

In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders throughout the pension data and vendor management lifecycles. You will work with business partners to ensure the successful execution and delivery of Finance Operations initiatives, including remediation and issue management. By developing solutions that drive positive business outcomes, you will oversee day-to-day operations, maintaining focus and ensuring high-quality results. Effective communication, prioritization, and a results-driven approach are essential for success in this position.

The ideal candidate is a team player who can quickly adapt and pivot in response to changing circumstances. They are prepared to work across various parts of the team and Corporate Finance to drive strategy, execution, and efficiency.

UPP is based in Toronto's financial district and has a hybrid work model (~2 days / week in office). 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Associate Director, Finance, will be responsible for the leadership, management and mentoring a small team of 2. In addition, the role includes but not limited to the following:

Accounts Payable and Expense Reimbursement

• Management of the day-to-day operations of the procure to pay function and activities of accounts payable for vendors, independent contractors, expense reimbursement activities, investment related expenses and vendor data.
• Managing all aspects of the Corporate Card Program.
• Ensuring accuracy and compliance with the company Travel and Expense Policy and continue to enhance the Policy to align with the growth of the organization.
• Lead or participate in special projects to enhance NetSuite or to resolve issues raised by other departments and work cross functionally with other business systems and the corporate finance team.
• Month-end procedures for accruals relating to accounts payable and general ledger reconciliation.
• Provide hands-on support to the team and back up during vacations.

Procurement and Vendor Management

• Have a process improvement and efficiency mindset to continue to advance UPP procurement and sourcing processes continuing to ensure it is fit for purpose and remains in compliance with policies and frameworks.
• Collaborate with key end users and UPP employees to ensure they understand and are familiar with ongoing changes to procurement and vendor management policies, frameworks, and procedures.
• Lead in the coordination and maintenance of tools and documentation associated with all aspects of procurement and vendor management phases.
• Implement the Vendor Management Framework which include establishing process, standards and controls.
• Foster a collaborative, forward-thinking culture by working with management and stakeholders to explore innovation and technology solutions that elevate UPP Procurement and Vendor Management to the next level.

Pension Finance:

This role is critical control function that ensures the accuracy and completeness of pension financial records by:

• Establishing and operationalizing processes for pension contributions and benefit payments, including:
  • Oversee the timely and efficient reconciliation of pension contributions, benefit payments, and disbursements to ensure accuracy and compliance
  • Identify and resolve discrepancies in pension transactions, maintaining accurate records and documentation.
  • Maintaining and streamlining the pension data and processes with ongoing continuous improvement.
• Work closely with Pension Services, Investment Finance Operations, Tax and Cash Operations to ensure seamless transactions and communication.
• Support the integration of pension administration and accounting systems, ensuring accurate data transfer and system functionality.
• Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, quality, and value for internal and external business partners through process, policy, or technology changes.
• Maintains and updates source documentation and related information by assisting in implementing procedural improvements and system enhancements to the pension system.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• 8+ years of experience with operational accounting and vendor management with a strong understanding of accounting processes and internal controls along with excellent project management.

• 5+ years of experience in leadership role of 2 or more team members.
• Industry experience in a startup or small team environment is an asset.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and able to navigate uncertain situations.
• High accuracy and attention to detail in all tasks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess problems, consider various factors, and recommend effective solutions.
• Adaptable to evolving priorities and able to manage multiple high-level tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Natural relationship-builder who asks thoughtful questions, listens intently, and engages stakeholders to build trust and credibility.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, thriving in a high-performance culture.
• Proactive and motivated to innovate and drive positive change.

EDUCATION:

• University degree, preferably in business administration or finance/accounting, and CPA designation.

ATTRIBUTES

• Self-driven
• Strong work ethic
• Be Accountable
• Resourceful
• Humble
• Strong work ethic
• Passion for learning
• Curious mind
• Empathetic
• Collaborative
• Authentic
• Confident
• Personable
• Team Player