CAWST is a Canadian charity and licensed not-for-profit professional engineering consultancy teaching people how to bring safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene in their homes, schools and clinics, using simple, affordable technologies.

At the heart of everything we do is our belief that when people have their basic water and sanitation needs met, they have the opportunity to succeed. This is what drives our dedicated team to work with a global network of more than 1,500 clients and partners. Together, we have reached over 70 million people since our inception in 2001.

The Position: Senior Director, Finance & Business Services

Reports to: CEO

Type: Full Time, Permanent

The Senior Director, Finance & Business Services is a dual-impact leadership role responsible for CAWST’s financial health and the operational success of our Calgary headquarters. Reporting to the CEO, this individual serves as a core member of the Senior Leadership Team and an Officer of the Board (Treasurer). We are seeking an executive who balances high-level financial oversight with a grounded, people-centric approach to leadership; someone who can provide financial oversight and governance and a multi-disciplinary team with equal skill and composure. Our leadership team is small and collaborative, constantly shifting between strategic planning and rolling up our sleeves to get work done.

Please note: This role requires you to be based in Calgary, AB, Canada. Only applicants with permanent Canadian work authorization will be considered (i.e. Canadian citizens and permanent residents).

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Stewardship & Governance

• Board Liaison: Serve as Treasurer and an Officer of the Board, providing counsel to the Audit, Risk, and Finance Committee. Coordinate Board and committee meetings and processes.

• Organizational Strategy: Partner with the Senior Leadership Team to align financial resources, oversee our risk framework and long term planning.

 Business Services & Operational Leadership

• Operational Oversight: Provide executive leadership for the Calgary office, overseeing business cycles and office administration to ensure a productive and collaborative work environment.

• Human Resources: Lead the HR function, providing executive oversight to ensure our culture remains supportive, inclusive, and professional.

Financial Management & Grant Stewardship

• Financial Integrity: Oversee accounting function and investment portfolio and cash management.

• Budgeting & Analysis: Lead annual budgeting and forecasting, providing the leadership team with the logical insights needed for informed decision-making.

• 10+ years of progressive leadership in finance and business operations. Proven experience managing diverse teams (Finance, HR, and/or Operations) is essential

• The ability to navigate complex organizational challenges with a calm, analytical, and steady hand.

• Exceptional emotional intelligence, with a track record of building trust and fostering positive relationships at all levels.

• Strong strategic communication ability and experience translating complex financial concepts for Board members, staff, and external stakeholders.

• Prior experience in the Charitable or Non-Profit sector

• CPA designation is required

Work Environment

• Hybrid work environment: In-office (Monday - Wednesday) & Remote (Thursday - Friday, when possible), with flexibility for in-person meetings and events. Please note that this role may require more than three days per week in-office on a regular basis, so remote days are not guaranteed.

Benefits of Working at CAWST

• Work that directly improves lives through safe water and sanitation.
   

• A culture that values creativity, collaboration, and inclusion.
   

• Flexible work environment and professional growth opportunities

When applying, please include:

• A cover letter that tells us more about you past what we can see on your resume, and why you are excited to work with CAWST. We will not consider your application unless this is included.

  • Please note: Your application will be read by real humans on our team, not an AI bot.

• Your resume

CAWST values equitable opportunities, sustainable solutions, and collaborative and inclusive processes. CAWST recognizes and accepts differences in cultural, religious, and political processes and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.