CHEK Media Seeks Finance Manager to Drive Financial Leadership

CHEK Media, North America’s only local, independent, employee-owned television station, is actively searching for a Finance Manager to enhance its financial leadership. Established in 1956, the station has developed a strong reputation on Vancouver Island, boasting the region’s leading newscast and a robust online presence. With over 80 employee owners, CHEK Media emphasizes accountability and integrity in its financial operations, making this role pivotal for both the organization and its stakeholders.

The Finance Manager will oversee daily accounting functions while playing a crucial role in the management team. This position involves handling a revenue base of approximately $15-18 million, generated from traditional broadcasting, digital advertising, industry funding, and rental income. The successful candidate will report directly to the General Manager, Jen Spencer, and will have a part-time Accounting Admin Assistant and indirect oversight of the Sales Coordinator for local accounts receivable.

Key Responsibilities and Expected Impact

The Finance Manager’s role is structured around several core responsibilities, accounting for various aspects of the organization’s financial health. Approximately 60-70% of the role will focus on accounting operations. This includes full-cycle accounting tasks such as managing general ledger entries, executing bank reconciliations, and preparing financial statements. The Finance Manager will also lead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end closing processes, ensuring accuracy in all financial reporting.

In addition to accounting operations, the role entails significant leadership and collaboration responsibilities, comprising around 10-15% of the position. The Finance Manager will work closely with department managers on budgeting and financial analysis, providing mentorship to the Accounting Admin Assistant and ensuring that the financial needs of the organization are met proactively.

Financial reporting and compliance will represent 10-20% of the workload, requiring the Finance Manager to produce accurate financial reports and coordinate with external auditors. This includes ensuring timely compliance with all regulatory filings, such as GST, PST, and corporate income tax, as well as facilitating annual reporting requirements for the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

Budget management and financial analysis will take up the remaining 10-20% of the role. The Finance Manager will oversee budget preparations and cash flow management, assisting in developing key financial strategies to meet operational needs.

Qualifications and Application Process

Candidates for the Finance Manager position should possess a university degree or diploma in Accounting, Finance, or Business, along with a CPA designation being advantageous. They must have a minimum of five years of progressive accounting experience and at least three years in a leadership capacity. Proficiency in QuickBooks and intermediate skills in Excel are preferred.

CHEK Media values organization, reliability, and communication skills, looking for individuals who can manage competing priorities while maintaining a positive outlook. The organization promotes a collaborative environment, encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

The position is primarily based at CHEK Media’s head office in Victoria, operating Monday to Friday, with some allowance for remote work. The company offers a competitive salary and full extended health care benefits, alongside participation in the employee share ownership program after one year of employment.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Jen Spencer at [email protected]. The application process will remain open until the position is filled. CHEK Media is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce.