Financial Services Officer 2

About Us

At the Nova Scotia Department of Finance and Treasury Board, we strive to provide financial leadership, analysis, and policies that strengthen Nova Scotia.  As stewards of the Province’s financial affairs, we deliver a wide range of corporate fiscal and management services – including the preparation of the provincial budget, forecast updates, and financial advice to the Department of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services and the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

If you are detail oriented and thrive while working in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to meet tight deadlines, we have an exciting opportunity for you to explore as a Financial Services Officer II.

About Our Opportunity

This position is responsible for the preparation and interpretive analysis of financial reports required by Senior Management.  Also responsible for providing advice and recommendations regarding the administration of budget managers’ financial resources. The position is responsible for identifying financial implications of proposed programs and activities and to help with solutions and options of financial and accounting issues.
 
Most importantly, the incumbent is a key resource and is responsible for the monthly forecasting, annual budget process, and preparation of the Minister’s briefing materials as well as supplementary details in preparation of the Minister’s debate. 
 
You are a valuable resource to clients, providing sound financial advice on how best to strategically utilize the Department’s resources, both human and financial. Your clients rely on you to provide accurate and timely support so they can make decisions relating to responsible allocations of these resources.  Through investigation and analysis of data, you will provide guidance to Management in a way that allows them to make informed decisions.
 

As the Financial Services Officer II, you will typically report to the Manager or Coordinator, Financial Advisory Services.

Primary Accountabilities

• Preparation, analysis, and data entry of budget managers’ monthly forecasts of expenditures and revenues including providing accurate and timely monthly variance analysis.
• Preparation of the monthly forecast comparison report detailing changes in the Department’s budget.
• Preparation and analysis of spending trends and recommendations.
• Assists with the preparation of the departmental budget.
• Responsible for the month-end and year-end accounting processes.
• Responsible for design, modification, and updating of various reports as required by senior management.
• Responsible for timely updates of the corporate full-time equivalent software system.
• Responsible for updating salary data.
• Responsible for distribution and receipt of monthly forecast reports.

Qualifications and Experience

This may be the right opportunity for you if you have successfully completed a two year post-secondary professional accounting training plus five years of related experience (or an acceptable equivalent or training and experience).

You have experience providing accurate budgeting and forecasting advice to clients.  Your strengths are having the ability to analyze large volumes of information and produce concise, relevant, and timely reports.  You have the ability to articulate financial information in a way that is readily understood by non-financial users.  You possess exceptional judgement and problem-solving skills, being able to accurately interpret information and determine an appropriate course of action. You thrive working independently and possess sound time management and organizational skills, strategically managing multiple deadlines.  

You are proficient in programs such as Office 365 (Excel, Word, Outlook), enterprise resource planning systems, internet, and the ability to quickly learn custom applications is required. You enjoy learning new computer systems which allow you to find ways to streamline processes while maintaining business requirements and meeting tight deadlines.

While not required, it is considered an asset if you are enrolled in the Chartered Professional Accountant program.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offering and eligibility criteria.

Additional Information

This competition will be used to fill one (1) permanent and one (1) term position. The term position has an anticipated end date of  Feb 29, 2024 with the possibility to extend. 

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• Department specific flexible working schedules