Controller

Who We Are

CAA Niagara is a proud Niagara Region employer, that strives on delivering rewarding experiences and enhancing the lives of our community. For over one hundred years, we have been a staple within our community, providing such services as emergency roadside assistance, travel services, insurance coverage, membership and rewards savings; continually growing our suite of relevant services and products.

A true community partner, we could not be here without our over 160,000 members across Niagara, allowing us to focus on earning your continued trust, every day!

Location: Thorold, ON
Status: Full-Time Permanent, On-Site

This is a newly created position.

About the Role

Reporting to the Vice-President, Finance, the Controller is responsible for leading the organization's day-to-day accounting operations and financial reporting functions. This role ensures accurate, timely financial information, maintains effective financial controls, and oversees financial close processes, cash flow management, regulatory reporting, banking, and treasury activities.

The Controller works closely with leaders across CAA Niagara to strengthen financial processes, improve operational efficiency, and support sound business decision-making. The role also provides leadership and coaching to the accounting team while driving continuous improvement through automation, technology, and process optimization.

The expected salary range for this role is $110,000.00–$125,000.00. Placement within this range will be determined based on the successful candidate’s qualifications, skills, and experience.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting & Reporting

• Oversee the day-to-day accounting functions for the organization.
• Build and lead month-end and year-end close processes, including account reconciliations, journal entries, accruals, and audited financial reporting.
• Monitor accounts receivable, accounts payable, cash flow, capital accounting, and day-to-day banking activities.
• Maintain appropriate financial controls, accounting procedures, and financial records.
• Ensure payroll, tax, government, and other regulatory filings are completed accurately and on time.
• Work with the business to support payroll, pension plans, and group benefits reporting.
• Coordinate business insurance renewals and related financial information.
• Work with external accountants and tax advisors on annual corporate tax filings, year-end financial statements, and other reporting requirements.

• Act as the primary financial contact for external accountants, auditors, banks, insurance providers, and government agencies.

Business Processes & Systems

• Improve accounting processes using automation, AI, and other technology solutions.

• Partner with all areas of the business to streamline workflows and reduce unnecessary manual processes.
• Help develop more efficient and consistent processes, controls, and reporting across the organization.
• Support system improvements and implementation of new tools or technology as the business grows.
• Manage the bank accounts for the business units and manage the relationship with our banking provider.

Leadership & Business Partnership

• Work closely with the Vice-President, Finance to provide practical financial information for the Board and Finance, Investment & Audit Committee.
• Provide day-to-day directions, coaching, and support to the accounting team.
• Ensure cost training and create redundancies in all accounting processes.
• Translate financial information into clear insights for non-financial leaders.
• Identify financial, operational, and process risks and recommend practical solutions.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong attention to detail and a disciplined approach to ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of financial records and reporting.
• Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
• Sound professional judgment and discretion when handling confidential financial, and business information.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet financial close and reporting deadlines while maintaining accuracy and effective controls.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex information and make sound decisions.
• Ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions and improvement strategies.

Education & Experience

• Postsecondary education in accounting, finance, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
• CPA designation preferred; candidates with strong relevant experience who do not hold the designation will also be considered.
• Several years of progressive accounting experience, ideally with responsibility for month-end close, financial reporting, account reconciliations, and financial controls.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, supported by practical experience managing day-to-day accounting processes.
• Strong proficiency in Excel, complemented by analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with Prophix, AXIS, Microsoft Power BI or comparable system is an asset.
• Comfort using technology, with an interest in automation, AI, systems improvement, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across departments.
• Ability to work with detailed transactions while maintaining a broader financial and operational perspective.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in an office setting with extended periods of sitting and computer use.
• Requires occasional travel to business sites within the region.

What’s In It For You

• 100% employer-paid premiums for health, dental, vision, life, and travel insurance
• Virtual healthcare and nurse navigation support
• Defined Contribution Registered Pension Plan
• Growth, training, and development opportunities
• Give Where You Live program (community volunteer program)
• Green and Wellness Reimbursement Program
• Paid personal and vacation hours

Interview Process

Our process is designed to provide a full picture of how you would contribute to our team:

1. Pre-screening call
2. In-person interview
3. Background and references
4. Offer

CAA Niagara does not currently use artificial intelligence in screening or selection of applicants.

CAA Niagara is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive workplace. We are dedicated to ensuring that our recruitment processes are barrier-free and accommodating to all individuals, including those with disabilities. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application, interview, or employment process, please inform our Human Resources department at [email protected]

We will work with you to meet your needs and ensure a positive experience throughout the recruitment journey.