Director of Finance and Operations

As a growing regional design studio, Unity Design Studio needs the best talent to meet the objectives of our core values. We are an established, B Corp certified studio and are aggressively pursuing bold goals in design and project approach.

With offices in Peterborough, Kitchener and Collingwood, Ontario, Unity has developed bestin-class expertise in serving the public sector (health, education, municipal, recreation, arts) and non-profit organizations (social services, culture, charities) with designs that are built upon deep stakeholder engagement. Ours is a culture that continually pushes for a deeper vision while respecting clients’ constraints. Above all else, we value relationships, knowing that the best works come from trusting collaborations.

Who We Are:

People

People are at the centre of all that we do. We seek partnerships with those who share our principles. We build trust and respect through meaningful engagement amongst ourselves, our partners and the community.

Culture

Our culture shapes our work. We cultivate a collaborative, inclusive environment that fosters creativity and innovation. We embrace flexibility and encourage levity alongside discipline.

Integrity

As stewards we take responsibility for the impact of our designs. We are committed to creating a state of well-being for individuals, community and the environment.

Our Core Values:

We are seeking a Director of Finance and Operations with a growth mindset and a strong sense of accountability to both our team and the studio. The ideal candidate will have experience managing the bookkeeping and daily human resource needs of a small to medium-sized business and will be proactive in advancing our bookkeeping systems with a focus on continuous improvement. This individual will also be responsible for producing financial reports and tracking KPIs to support decision-making in our fast-paced, growing architectural firm. Excellent interpersonal skills and a strong adherence to confidentiality is required in this role.

This is a full-time permanent position on site at our Peterborough location. The hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Who You Are:

Key Responsibilities:

Studio Finances

  • Accounts receivable and accounts payable

  • Bank reconciliation and deposits

  • WSIB reporting

  • Processing of all government taxes; federal and provincial

  • Process and distribute year end T4 summaries

  • Preparation of year-end financials and back-up to assist external accounting firm with annual company review process

  • Preparation of monthly financial reports and KPIs

  • Payroll

  • Process reimbursable expenses and mileage

Studio Operations

  • Oversee day-to-day studio activities, including studio maintenance, organization and cleanliness

  • Provide reception services to the Peterborough Studio

  • Oversee service agreements and vendor contracts to ensure favourable terms and compliance

  • Promote a positive studio culture

Studio Management

  • Identify and manage equipment maintenance needs and acquiring supplies for all studio locations

  • Procuring studio equipment and supplies as necessary

Studio Team Management

  • Assist with orientation for new employees

  • Manage the implementation of established standards and procedures, measuring results against standards

  • Provide confidential administrative support to the Principals

  • Monitor staff survey, complaints and suggestion platforms to ensure anonymity as well as the identification and resolution of issues

  • Act as a liason between staff and the leadership team.

Key Skills / Experience:

  • Proven bookkeeping and administrative experience

  • Bookkeeping, Accounting or Business Administration Certificate or Diploma designation an asset

  • Strong computer skills including MS Excel, Quickbooks

  • Solid understanding of bookkeeping and accounting principles

  • Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and adherence to deadlines

  • Knowledge of general human resource principals

  • Ability to work independently

What We Offer:

  • An opportunity to work for the highest-ranking B Corp certified architectural firm in Canada.

  • A competitive salary with advancement and growth opportunities.

  • Extended Health Benefits (Health, Life and Dental).

  • Continuing education allowance of $1500.00 annually.

What You Can Expect During The Hiring Process:

  • 1st interview with the Administrative Principal

  • All applicants will be notified of whether they will advance.

  • 2nd interview with the Administrative Principal and at least one other of the Principals of Unity

  • Decision and offer within 2 weeks of commencing the interview process

Unity prides itself on our fair and equitable hiring practices. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. If you are an applicant with disabilities and require accommodations, please let us know at the time of contact and provisions will be arranged. 

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Please submit a cover letter, resume and portfolio to Administrative Principal Kristy Hook at khook@unitydesignstudio.ca.

This job posting closes on January 6th, 2025.

Thank you for your interest in Unity.