Detail-oriented and proactive financial management professional with extensive experience supporting Indigenous organizations through accurate accounting, regulatory compliance, and comprehensive financial reporting. Well-versed in the operations of non-profit organizations funded by government programs, with strong knowledge of procurement policies and internal financial controls. Adept at processing transactions, reconciling accounts, and contributing to efficient month-end and year-end closings. Known for a collaborative working style, strong relationship-building with First Nations and a commitment to continuous improvement. Demonstrates integrity, precision, and professionalism in shared services environments.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Financial Specialist
First Nations Financial Management Board
01.2025 - Current
Provide remote and on-site accounting support to First Nation clients
Present Financial Management Support Services
Deliver financial training workshops and capacity development initiatives
Assist and support First Nations in preparing for FMS certification
Build and maintain strong relationships with First Nations communities
Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and internal financial controls
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance smooth financial operations
Design and implement accounting services and training schedules based on client priorities
Financial Services Officer
First Nations Land Management Resource Centre
04.2022 - 09.2024
Perform financial and statistical analysis
Review and process travel and expense claims
Process bi-weekly payroll
Monthly bank reconciliations
Assist with various briefing and meeting material
Manage Land Use Planning and Land Registry budgets
Implement ADP payroll system and train staff
Prepare documentation to assist with forecasting, annual budgets and to draft quarterly and annual financial and administrative reports
Responsible for maintaining all aspects of accounts payable and receivable functions
Answer inquiries and provide information to RC staff, LAB Directors and First Nations on RC financial policies and procedures
Post transactions in QuickBooks and update financial tracking spreadsheets
Financial Controller
First Nations Human Resources Development Commission of Quebec (FNHRDCQ)
07.2021 - 04.2022
Participate in defining organizational objectives for the Finance department
Apply the policies, guidelines and procedures related to the financial policies
Assist in planning the annual operational budgets for the departments
Produce monthly, quarterly and annual expense and reimbursement reports for department directors and funders
Develop and maintain harmonious relationships with various government representatives and Community representatives
Participate actively in the annual audit; opening and closing of the books, reconciliation of the GL and produce reports as required by the auditors
Participate in the preparation and review of financial statements
Prepare bi-annual GST and QST reimbursement claims
Reconcile client payment entries in two systems (ALMASS & GP)
Reconcile A/R, A/P, Payroll and Financial modules
Verify and process all entries made by A/P and Payroll Officer
Determine and enter annual distribution percentages by fund
Verify urban client payment entries and send EFTs/prepare cheques
Enter Community budgets and process quarterly payments
Assist in the production of financial reports (annual, regional meetings, governmental)
Develop and negotiate agreements with various funders and ensure that the budgets and expenses comply with the negotiated terms
Participate in regional meetings and budget meetings with management
Enter, verify, post and maintain sound financial accounting management
Responsible for the full accounting cycle
Supervise Accounts Payable and Payroll Agents
Implement Microsoft Dynamics 365 accounting, travel and payroll systems
Director of Urban Strategy
FNHRDCQ
10.2018 - 07.2021
Manage the human resources of the Urban Strategy (25 staff & 5 offices)
Manage the financial and material resources for all 5 offices and staff
Ensure the strategic development of the department
Establish and/or participate in advisory committees and working groups
Participate in the development, implementation and updating of the organization's policies, guidelines and procedures
Enhance team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations
Cultivate a positive work environment that fosters employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosters overall team morale
Manage budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
Financial Controller
FNHRDCQ
07.2013 - 09.2018
See above
Accounts Payable & Purchasing Officer
FNHRDCQ
02.2011 - 07.2013
Apply the policies, guidelines and procedures related to the Financial Administration policy
Verify travels claims and prepare payments
Negotiate prices and discounts and prepare purchase orders
Issue payments to suppliers by referring to the invoices, purchase orders, rental contracts and leases, and adequately record them in the accounting system
Serve as the primary contact for the suppliers and resolve any invoice inaccuracies
Maintain an updated filing system
Gather the documents requested during the annual financial audits and the production of quarterly reports
Media Product Specialist/ Inside Sales
Astro-Med Canada Inc.
09.2008 - 10.2010
Manage three order departments (QLS, GRASS & T&M)
Receive, verify, confirm, process and invoice orders received
Assist customers in media matching (label material to thermal transfer ribbon)
Provide media quotes (price, size, specs for QLS)
Provide medical equipment, accessory & chart paper quotes
Verification and analysis - ensure proper transfer price versus end user price