Department: Administration
Supervisor: President & CEO
Position Category: Full time (Permanent)
Salary Range: $55,000 to $75,000 (dependant on experience)
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week
Start Date: June 1, 2025
Application Deadline: May 12, 2025

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Business Manager to join our dynamic team at a mission-driven not-for-profit organization based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines day-to-day financial management and data entry with strategic input into budgeting, forecasting, and business planning. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Business Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health, operational integrity, and long-term sustainability of the organization.

Responsibilities:

Financial Management & Bookkeeping

• Manage all core finance functions-from accounts payable/receivable to general ledger entries, and bank reconciliations.
• Track restricted and unrestricted funds, grants, and project budgets
• Maintain accurate and timely financial records and files
• Model leadership in financial integrity, privacy, and compliance, supporting a culture of accountability and excellence.

Budgeting & Reporting

• Collaborates with the President & CEO and the senior management team to develop the annual operating budget and departmental budgets
• Guides the annual budget process, working closely with senior managers to create and monitor budgets, flagging any potential issues before they become challenges.
• Monitor budget vs. actual performance and present monthly financial updates to the senior management team.
• Prepares monthly and year-end financial statements for the Board of Directors
• Support preparation of grant budgets and reporting
• Manage and provide support to third-party audits, CRA audits, and governmental funding initiatives
• Manages year-end audits like a pro: reconciling accounts, preparing reports, and answering questions with confidence.
• Provides guidance in budget development for capital project plans. Monitors reporting and records all tangible capital assets.

Strategic & Operational Support

• Provide financial analysis and business recommendations to support strategic decisions and organizational growth.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial systems, policies, procedures, controls, and reporting tools.
• Ensures financial policies and procedures are followed.
• Participate in Board and Finance Committee meetings
• Contribute to business planning, forecasting, and sustainability initiatives

Compliance & Administration

• Make sure the financial operations comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards.
• Ensure compliance with CRA regulations.
• Manage financial audits and liaise with external auditors
• Maintain internal controls and policies related to finance, procurement, and risk
• Oversee selected administrative tasks such as insurance renewals, vendor contracts, or lease agreements

Qualifications:

• Degree or diploma in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field
• Minimum 4-7 years of progressive experience in accounting/bookkeeping, preferably in the nonprofit sector
• Proficient in accounting software, Excel, and cloud-based file systems
• Strong understanding of NPO accounting standards and fund accounting
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly to non-financial stakeholders
• Collaborative, proactive, and adaptable to a small team environment

Competencies

• Excellent professional communication (written and interpersonal) skills with a "team player" attitude
• Problem-solver who takes initiative and enjoys interacting with others
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to balance multiple priorities within deadlines
• Computer literacy utilizing MS Office applications, as well as proficiency in spreadsheet applications, and the ability to prepare financial records using financial software

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary Range: $55,000 - $75,000 CAD per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Extended health & dental benefits (if applicable)
• Generous paid vacation (minimum 3 weeks)
• Flexible work arrangements (hybrid/remote potential)
• Professional development and training opportunities

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience to [email protected] by May 12, 2025. All applications will be reviewed but only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. All applicants are thanked in advance for their interest.

Discovery Centre is committed to leveraging our facility, people, and programming to create inclusive spaces that ignite a passion for science and discovery. We are also committed to advancing diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility practices within our workplace, public engagement spaces, and programming. Our Centre's Board of Directors, management, and staff believe diverse participation and representation are essential and that our networks thrive when we create an inclusive and equitable culture where all people can see themselves reflected, feel respected, and have their contributions valued.

Discovery Centre promotes equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, and we encourage applications from candidates who self-identify as a member of an underrepresented group, including Indigenous people (especially Mi'kmaq), people of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), members of other racialized groups, women, people with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please contact [email protected] to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.