• Join an organization with a rich history and dedication to empowering First Nations communities.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team driving innovation and meaningful change in finance.
• Earn a competitive annual salary of $100,000-$120,000, with hybrid flexibility and comprehensive benefits!

About Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council

The Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council (Regional Council)—among the very first tribal councils established in Canada—is a united service oriented organization that works to advance the interests of its member First Nations: Driftpile Cree Nation, Sawridge First Nation, Sucker Creek First Nation, and Swan River First Nation. Together, these communities work to foster collaboration and mutual progress across the region. With a focus on advancing education, health and child welfare outcomes, economic development,  cultural preservation, and the defence and protection of Treaty rights and traditional land uses, Regional Council is also the governing body for the Lakeshore Regional Police Service, one of only three First Nations police services in Alberta. 

Regional Council partners with the federal, provincial and local governments, regional industries, and community leaders to ensure First Nations in the Slave Lake region are meaningful participants in decisions that affect their families and future generations. With growing environmental stewardship and political advocacy initiatives, Regional Council is dedicated to empowering its communities and preserving their rich heritage. By blending tradition with forward-thinking strategies, Regional Council is as a vital partner helping to create a prosperous future for all. 

Join us in making a significant impact, where your skills and passion can contribute to a legacy of resilience and progress.

For more information, please visit our website: lslirc.ca

About the Opportunity

LSLIRC is looking for a full-time Financial Controller based in Slave Lake, Alberta.

Reporting to the Executive Director, you will play a pivotal role in leading Regional Council’s financial operations, ensuring fiscal accountability, and managing relationships with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and other key stakeholders.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible to oversee Regional Council’s financial administration, compliance, and reporting while guiding the organization through a critical transition to modernized cloud-based financial systems.

More specifically, as Financial Controller, your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Overseeing the transition to a new industry-standard financial accounting software package and digitizing financial systems.
• Managing budgets, variance analysis, and annual financial plans.
• Providing financial advice to the Board of Chiefs, Regional Council, Executive Director, and program Directors.
• Ensuring compliance with ISC funding agreements, federal and provincial regulations, and audit requirements.
• Leading change management initiatives and training staff on updated systems.
• Supervising accounting, payroll, and procurement functions to ensure operational efficiency.
• Supporting grant applications and funding negotiations, including ISC processes, by providing sound financial advice.
• Collaborating with member Nations to enhance financial management and reporting functions.

About You

To qualify, you will need a CPA designation (or equivalent) and a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, with 5+ years of senior-level experience in financial management or administration, ideally within a First Nations organization. A relevant combination of education and experience will also be considered. Applications will also be accepted from candidates who are near completion of a financial designation who meet other education and experience requirements.

The following requirements are essential:

• Possession of a valid Class 5 Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Ability to undergo a Police Information Check, including a Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Willingness to travel as required, with on-site work in Slave Lake required for designated periods under a flexible hybrid/remote arrangement. Regional Council’s Finance and Administration office is in Slave Lake; it operates a satellite office in High Prairie. Member First Nations are located on the south shore of Lesser Slave Lake between Slave Lake and High Prairie.

Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:

• Proficiency in industry-standard financial accounting software.
• Experience with First Nations finance, including ISC funding agreements and government processes.
• Strong understanding of federal and provincial funding processes and regulations.
• Proven ability to lead financial transitions and change management initiatives.
• Expertise in budgeting, variance analysis, and strategic financial planning.
• Familiarity with grant applications and financial reporting for government bodies.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.
• Strong supervisory and mentoring skills for accounting and clerical staff.
• Commitment to fostering collaboration with member First Nations.

As our ideal candidate, you will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, along with a collaborative mindset and the ability to manage change effectively. Your adaptability, problem-solving capabilities, and proactive approach to leadership will ensure your success guiding the team through the transition to an updated financial system. A commitment to cultural sensitivity, integrity, and supporting the mission of Regional Council will make you a perfect fit for the organization.

This is a dynamic leadership role, offering the opportunity to shape Regional Council’s financial operations for an exciting future. We are looking for someone who is forward-thinking, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.

Note: Preference may be given to applicants who have First Nation or Indigenous ancestry. 

About the Benefits

In exchange for your hard work and dedication, you will receive a highly competitive annual salary of $100,000-$120,000, negotiable dependent on experience, along with a great host of benefits, including:

• Comprehensive benefits plan, including extended health care, dental, vision, life and long-term disability, etc.
• Pension plan with employer RRSP matching.
• Four weeks of vacation to start.
• Sick pay and a generous leave program.
• Relocation assistance for the right candidate.
• Training and development support.
• Regular social events such as community events, Christmas parties, pow-wows, and more! 

Be part of a transformative journey, driving financial innovation and supporting First Nations communities—apply now!