Finance Director
Careers that make a difference
We work to build and maintain an accountable government that motivates, inspires, and provides opportunities for Vuntut Gwitchin Citizens. Our employees have the opportunity to make meaningful connections and work on initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives.
“With boundless pride in our ancient cultural heritage and ancestral homelands, we exercise our inherent right to self-government, to take the responsibility for the general welfare of our Citizens, and to provide for the good government of our community, lands and resources.”
—Preamble, VGFN Constitution
Who We Are
With boundless pride in our ancient cultural heritage and ancestral homelands, we exercise our inherent right to self-government, to take the responsibility for the general welfare of our Citizens, and to provide for the good governance of our community, lands and resources. We promote wellness, self-sufficiency, and prosperity in our community through cultural teachings and environmental stewardship, and by building and maintaining an accountable government that motivates, inspires, and provides opportunities for the Vuntut Gwitchin.
About the Role
The Finance Director is responsible for the financial operations of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN), accounting and including the accounting systems, budgeting, leading and supporting the annual audit process, payroll, procurement, and financial and statutory reporting. This role ensures compliance with VGFN laws and policies, Chief and Council directives and applicable legislation. The Director leads the development and implementation of risk mitigation strategies related to financial management. As the organization’s senior financial authority, provides strategic financial advice and direction to the Executive Director, Associate Executive Director, VGFN leadership and Departments. Reporting to the Executive Director, some of the responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to;
Financial Management – Oversight of all accounting operations, budgeting processes, financial systems, financial reporting, forecasting, financial planning, payroll, benefits administration, procurement and internal controls. Prepares monthly variance reports identifying shortages/surpluses, and revenues/expenses.
Planning - Directs planning processes with Council to develop a long-term vision and strategic plan, incorporating feedback from staff and Citizens. Implements the five-year strategic plan and Council directives by aligning strategy with operations and ensures policy frameworks and structures exist to support oversight, regulation, accountability, and inclusiveness.
Procurement – Oversight on the coordination of VGFN’s operational inventory. Provides guidance and oversight on the purchasing, receipt and additions to inventory records all materials required for primarily Government Services operations. Ensures warehouse is stocked with adequate inventory to support operations and the community.
People Management - Manages direct reports and operations by establishing work plans, evaluating activities and progress, addressing concerns, and communicating direction and expectations. Promotes capacity development through coaching, performance evaluation, encouraging individual development, and manages personnel issues and problem solving.
Governance - Provides leadership, implements and champions government-wide human resources, financial and administrative frameworks, policy, and strategy (as guided by the HR Director and Executive Director/ Associate Executive Director). Prioritizes a safe and healthy work environment in accordance with legislation. Fosters a culture of ongoing receptivity to continual change to improve the operation and effectiveness of the government of the First Nation.
External Relations - Represents VGFN's interests and positions in negotiations and at official functions and in joint initiatives. Maintains strategic relationships and participates with a wide variety of stakeholders including other First Nations organizations, boards, councils, and committees, working groups, community partners and officials of the federal and territorial governments.
Management Committee - Leads Management Committee meetings to issue management directives concerning the management of capital interests, the organization and management of VGFN, and the disposition or lending of public property.
Emergency Management - Responds to crisis situations of employees and Citizens and consults with appropriate parties to identify and achieve solutions.
What We Offer
· Very competitive salary that is commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience.
· Working Hours: 80hours biweekly.
· 4% Northern Community Remoteness Allowance for employees residing in Old Crow full-time.
· 4% Northern Travel Allowance for employees residing in Old Crow full-time.
· 4 weeks’ vacation to start plus two weeks paid time off over the Christmas season.
· A very healthy extended benefits package.
· 12 days management leave per year
· 10 days sick pay per year.
· 10 days paid special/personal leave per year.
· A matched pension plan.
· Subsidized Housing may be available.
· Relocation Allowance.
What You Bring:
· Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)designation in good standing.
· Moderate (8+ years) of progressive financial management experience with demonstrated success managing accounting and payrollsystems.
· Moderate (5-7 years) experience motivating andmanaging human resources, policy, and governance, to translate political direction into operational strategy and
business plans.
· Strong knowledge of federal and territorial funding programs and reporting requirements.
· Leadership experience in the public sector and/or an Indigenous organization possessing a final/self-governing agreementis an asset.
· Strong interpersonal, communication and presentation skills.
Supporting you along the way
We believe that a rewarding career is not only good for our employees, but it also leads to better outcomes for our clients, workplace and the community. That’s why we are committed to providing you with a competitive salary, health benefits, and a retirement plan. Beyond compensation, you will have the opportunity to make meaningful connections and work on initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives.
To Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter to: jobs@vgfn.ca
In accordance with the Canadian Human Rights Act(CHRA, Section 16(1)), hiring preference
will be given to Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation Citizens. Following this, preference will be extended
to Indigenous candidates, and then to those with experience and knowledge of First Nations
customs and practices.
While we appreciate all applications, only those selected forfurther consideration will be contacted.

