JOB PURPOSE

The Business Advisor is responsible for providing high-level operational and strategic support to the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (EVP CFO) of the Investment Holding Company (IHC). This role is pivotal in ensuring the Finance office operates efficiently and effectively, enabling the EVP CFO to focus on the organization’s strategic priorities. The Business Advisor will also oversee a Business Support Coordinator (BSC), fostering seamless collaboration across various Finance sub-functions. This is a developmental role, designed for high-potential talent on a leadership succession track, and requires a blend of functional insight and broad business acumen. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Planning and Execution: Collaborate closely with the EVP CFO and the Finance leadership team to develop and monitor strategic and operational plans that align with the organization’s strategic goals. Provide insights and recommendations that inform key decisions, grounded in a strong understanding of functional and organizational priorities.

• Project Management: Support the execution of high-impact projects on behalf of the EVP CFO, ensuring that all deliverables are met on time and within budget. Coordinate cross-functional teams and manage stakeholders to achieve project objectives.

• Operational Support: Guided by the EVP CFO, streamline key processes within the Finance office, ensuring effective communication, time management, and task prioritization. Manage the flow of information to and from the EVP CFO, ensuring that all matters are handled promptly and effectively.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Provide leadership and guidance to the BSC, ensuring they are effectively supporting the Finance office. Mentor and develop the BSC to improve overall team performance.

• Financial Oversight: Support the preparation and review of departmental reports, budgets, and forecasts. Ensure all financial documentation is accurate and submitted in a timely manner. Provide insights and recommendations to the EVP CFO by understanding budget allocations, advising on variances, and ensuring that spending remains aligned with strategic priorities.

• Stakeholder Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders on behalf of the EVP CFO. Facilitate communication and collaboration across departments, ensuring that the EVP CFO’s priorities are communicated and understood.

• Meeting Management: Prepare agendas, materials, and presentations for meetings led by the EVP CFO. Ensure action items are documented and followed up on, and that meetings are productive and aligned with organizational goals.

• Administrative Support: Provide high-level administrative support, including drafting correspondence, managing the EVP CFO’s calendar, and handling confidential information with discretion.

• Special Assignments: Take on special projects and assignments as directed by the EVP CFO, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in handling diverse tasks.

JOB COMPETENCIES 

• Strategic Insight: Demonstrate the ability to align departmental initiatives with the broader organizational strategy, ensuring that the Finance office contributes to the company’s success.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Provide effective leadership to the BSC, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

• Operational Excellence: Exhibit exceptional organizational and operational skills, ensuring that the Finance office operates smoothly and efficiently.

• Effective Communication: Facilitate clear and effective communication between the Finance office and other departments, as well as with external stakeholders.

• Project Management Expertise: Demonstrate strong project management skills, with the ability to execute complex projects from inception to completion.

• Financial Acumen: Possess a solid understanding of financial principles to support budget planning, analysis, and reporting.

• Leading through Influence and Without Positional Authority: Navigate complex environments and drive outcomes through influence, relationship-building, and credibility rather than positional authority.

• Functional Insight: Demonstrate a working knowledge of core Finance disciplines to support strategy execution effectively.

• Confidentiality and Discretion: Uphold the highest level of confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive information related to the Finance office.

• Digital Fluency: Use digital tools and technology to streamline manual processes and advise on process improvements. 

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Proficiency in the full Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, PowerPoint, Excel, PowerBI, Canva and other digital tools

• Strong project management skills

• Financial analysis and reporting skills

• Digital savvy with the ability to adapt to new technologies quickly

• Research and analytical skills

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or any other related fields.

• Training and/or certification in project management will be an asset but is not required.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 5 – 7 years of experience in business administration, project management, finance and/or executive support roles.

• Proven track record of managing complex projects and supporting cross-functional teams.

• Experience working in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment, preferably within a large corporation.