Head of Accounting & External Financial Reporting

Head of Accounting & External Financial Reporting

Toronto, Canada

ABOUT MASTERCARD FOUNDATION

Mastercard Foundation seeks a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. Through its Young Africa Works strategy and Canadian EleV program, the Foundation works with partners to ensure that millions of young people, especially young women, access quality education, financial services and dignified work.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the Director, Shared Services, the Head of Accounting & External Financial Reporting will lead a team of accounting professionals. This includes overseeing accounting operations, preparing external financial statements, ensuring compliance with reporting standards (ASNPO, GAAP, IFRS, IFRS for SMEs, and IPSAS), and supporting external audits at the enterprise level and for our African branches.

WAYS YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of accounting professionals, fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment aligned with the foundation’s values.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closing activities, including the review and completeness of journal entries, adjustments, balance sheet reconciliations, and cash flows.
• Manage the preparation and approval of enterprise and branch-level financial statements, ensuring timely and accurate reporting for external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and financial reporting obligations, adhering to not-for-profit industry-specific standards in collaboration with legal and tax teams.
• Lead the annual external audit process, addressing findings and implementing best practices for financial governance.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on GAAP, IFRS, and other applicable accounting standards, providing guidance on technical accounting matters and preparing relevant documentation.
• Stay informed of changes in accounting standards, regulations, and financial reporting developments to ensure compliance and adaptability.
• Develop and enforce accounting policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with the foundation’s commitment to impact.
• Enhance financial reporting systems and automation tools to deliver analytics and insights.
• Collaborate with Accounts Payable, Tax, Legal, Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) teams, investment entities, and program teams to ensure accurate reporting and effective financial planning.
• Support FP&A with budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing significant changes in financial results to contribute to informed decision-making.
• Identify and implement process improvements to streamline accounting and reporting, fostering innovation and efficiency.

WHO YOU ARE

• A designated CPA with 15+ years of financial reporting experience; a background in public accounting is highly valued.
• 10+ years of leadership experience with a proven ability to develop functional capabilities, lead teams with humility and respect, and foster an inclusive work environment.
• Deep knowledge of financial reporting standards, with expertise in not-for-profit organizations being a bonus.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably Workday) and financial tools such as Power BI, Office Connect, Excel, and SharePoint.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and business partnering skills, complemented by exceptional communication and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated collaborative leadership skills with an emphasis on listening, co-creation, and motivating teams.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage deadlines effectively and meticulous attention to detail.
• Willingness to travel to Africa occasionally.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively across a large, multi-cultural organization.
• Demonstrates professional maturity, cultural sensitivity, and impeccable integrity that align with the Foundation’s values.

Deadline for Applications is February 7, 2025.

Mastercard Foundation values the unique skills and experiences each individual brings to the organization and we are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.

Completion of satisfactory business references and background checks are essential conditions of employment.