Director, Finance

Full-time; Permanent

Date Posted: June 4, 2024

Who we are…

The Pacific National Exhibition is an iconic institution in BC, famous for bringing generations of people together to celebrate and build memories. This 114-year-old, non-profit organization has an annual operating budget of over $80 million dollars and generates revenue through four activity streams: the 15-day annual summer Fair and winter Fair which averages 700,000 people annually, Playland amusement park which welcomes 400,000 guests annually including Fright Nights, and a busy year-round portfolio of events including concerts, trade shows and film, cultural and community events. In total we bring over 2 million people through the site each year. The fourth activity stream is park care and facility maintenance. The PNE is proud of the work it does at Hastings Park and has a vibrant team that is passionate about events, guest experience and delivering memorable experiences.

At the PNE, we strive to create an environment that reflects our organization’s core values: Enthusiasm, Excellence and Evolution. With a focus on these core values, we are committed to achieving our mission which is to “Deliver Memorable Experiences” for all who interact with the PNE whether it is our guests, our employees, or the community.

Reporting to the Vice President, Finance & Corporate Services, the Director, Finance plays a pivotal role in overseeing and managing all finance related functions regarding Fair, Playland, and Year-round events and corporate portfolios. The Director will provide strategic leadership and management to all aspects of finance, accounting, budgeting, controls, analysis, forecasting, and reporting values of integrity for transparency. Our ideal candidate is an innovative and collaborative leader, who will effectively align with PNE’s core values: Enthusiasm, Excellence, and Evolution.

What will you do?

In your role as a Director, Finance your primary accountabilities are:

• Work with the VP, Finance & Corporate Services in development and oversight of multi-year operational and capital budgets, and cash flow forecasts to mitigate operational risks.
• Directs and manages the negotiation of major goods and services contracts, corporate, property and liability insurance policies, and other similar agreements.
• Maintain external relationships with banks, auditors, insurance, and other third-party vendors including corporate legal services.
• Establishes standards, controls, polices and procedures for the financial aspects of goods and services contracts.
• Ensures the protection of corporate assets, security of cash receipts and integrity of reported financial data and administers appropriate internal audit procedures under an internal audit plan developed jointly with the Office of the President & CEO
• Manages the investment of funds and management of debt ensuring appropriate returns and necessary liquidity for operational requirements.
• Collaborates with external organizations and regulatory agencies, including the City of Vancouver, on matters of mutual interest to facilitate effective planning and implementation of financial, system and administrative functions.
• Plans and directs the development and maintenance of appropriate corporate information and financial reporting systems.
• Preparing adequate financial reporting for the organization in order to inform important decisions about future operational and capital investments 
• Provides oversight related to insurance policies, privacy, procurement, and legal matters
• Managing and providing leadership and training to Controller & accounting managers, Accounts Payable, and Accounts Receivable.
• Manages all tax planning and compliance and coordinates completion of tax returns.
• Managing budget preparation and analysis of annual budget roll-ups.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What else?

• Post-secondary education in a relevant field along with a minimum of 5 years of progressively senior finance experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years of experience managing accounting professionals.
• Professional accounting designation (CPA)
• Proven financial analytical skills, including the ability to identify risks, opportunities, trends, and relationships. 
• Previous experience in a non-profit or a public section is an asset.
• Must have excellent computer skills, financial management software, particularly with Excel and pivot tables, and the ability to learn new computer programs efficiently.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of corporate finance and accounting principles, laws, and best practices
• Strategic thinker and effective leader who can support making profitable decisions.
• Solid knowledge of financial analysis and forecasting methodologies.
• Ability to foster collaborative, effective working relationships with peers, employees, tenants, clients, government officials and other external contacts.
• Exceptional planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to function independently and under pressure, while managing various projects at the same time .
• Conduct due diligence and recommendations on the timing and implementation of major projects at the PNE, including long-term and master planning. Advise on contract negotiations from a financial impact perspective.
• Successful candidates must undergo a Criminal Record Check.

Who are you?

• Organized
• Methodical
• Proactive
• Skillful communicator
• Critical thinker
• Committed to striving for excellence

Where and when to APPLY?

Applications can be submitted via the PNE website at and will be accepted until the role is filled.

Preference will be given to candidates who submit their resume/cover letter before Sunday, July 7. We look forward to hearing from you!

Additional Information

The PNE's compensation offerings are in alignment with a pay-for-performance pay philosophy that recognizes individual, and teamwork performance. The role is a permanent, full-time position with a typical salary range of $130,000 - $160,000 per annum. The starting salary will be based on the successful candidate’s competencies, including but not limited to knowledge, skills, experience, and internal pay structures. As a part of the PNE's total compensation package, this position may be eligible for other benefits subject to program eligibility requirements. 

The PNE is proud to be an equal opportunity employer; committed to creating an inclusive workforce that reflects the diverse community we proudly serve. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or age. If you require any support or accommodations throughout any stage of the recruitment process, please contact the People & Culture Department at .