Finance Manager

Location: Guelph, ON - Hybrid.

Hiring Salary Range: $90,000 - $105,000 hiring range

About Us:

Friendlier is a trusted reuse partner for campuses, foodservice operators, and institutions across North America, delivering turnkey reusable packaging systems that simplify the shift away from single-use packaging. Our model combines durable packaging, digital tools that support engagement and environmental impact tracking, and reliable collection and sanitization services to keep containers in active circulation while reducing operational burden. Founded in Canada, Friendlier has grown from a local solution to a national presence across the country and recently into the United States, continuing to support organizations seeking practical, scalable ways to reduce single-use waste through systems that integrate seamlessly into everyday operations. 

About the Role:

As the Finance Manager at Friendlier, you will be a key contributor to the overall strategy and are accountable for the financial leadership of the business.  Reporting directly to the CEO, this is both a strategic and hands on role and is focused on a number of key areas for Friendlier, with the majority of time spent hands on.

Key Responsibilities: 

Financial Planning and Analysis:

• In partnership with the CEO, develop and implement financial strategies, plans, and policies to drive business growth and profitability and allow each department to work in the most organized way.
• Determine realistic goals and establish financial controls to maintain maximum productivity.
• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process
  , ensuring alignment with the company's strategic objectives.
• Work cross-functionally with department leaders to develop budgets, monitor spending, and provide regular updates on financial performance against plan.
• Conduct financial analysis, performance monitoring, and variance analysis to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Allocate company funds accordingly to ensure each department can function at an optimal pace
• Support negotiations for investments, mergers and acquisitions and the establishment of new divisions within the company

Financial Reporting and Compliance:

• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Ensure compliance with accounting principles, regulatory requirements, and taxation laws.
• Coordinate with external auditors for the annual audit process and manage relationships with financial institutions, investors, and stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement through process optimization, automation, and the implementation of effective internal controls to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability across the finance function.

Treasury and Cash Management:

• Manage cash flow, liquidity, and working capital to support operational needs and investment requirements.
• Optimize capital structure, debt financing, and investment decisions to maximize returns and minimize risks. 
• Monitor and mitigate financial risks, including foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, and credit risk.
• Develop and maintain short- and long-term cash flow forecasts, providing actionable insights to support liquidity management, strategic decision-making, and capital planning.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Determine the future size and structure of the finance organization to support the business with an ability to communicate results and areas of focus to stakeholders in easy to understand terms
• Foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement within the finance department and across the organization.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration and communication to achieve organizational goals and objectives.
• Ownership of Payroll through partnering with external Bookkeeper and People & Culture

Accounts Receivable & Cash Collections:

• Manage the full accounts receivable cycle, including reporting, payment application, collections follow-up, and account reconciliation. 
• Monitor aging reports and proactively resolve outstanding balances to support healthy cash flow. 
• Partner with internal teams and customers to address billing inquiries, improve payment timelines, and maintain positive client relationships. 
• Support the development and continuous improvement of AR processes, controls, and reporting appropriate for a growing startup environment. 

What you Bring: 

• 5 or more years of experience in leadership positions within a company’s financial department.
• University degree in business administration, accounting and /or finance and accreditation as a CPA.
• Demonstrated experience in executing sales and operational strategies that drive revenue growth, market expansion and cost reductions.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset and a passion for driving positive environmental impact.
• Experience in a startup or scaleup environment
• Ability to work both strategically and tactically

Why You Should Join Us:

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact by driving positive environmental change through innovative solutions.
• Competitive compensation package including base salary, performance-based bonuses, and stock options.
• Collaborative and inclusive work culture that values diversity, creativity, and continuous learning.
• Flexible work environment with the option for remote work and a focus on work-life balance.
• Career growth and advancement opportunities within a fast-growing startup environment.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, or 2SLGBTQI+ identity. Be part of a team that celebrates diversity and promotes an inclusive environment for all. Please let us know if you require an accommodation due to a disability and we will work with you to address your needs.

If you are a Finance leader with a passion for driving positive change and building in a startup environment, we invite you to join us in creating a cleaner, greener future. Apply now and be part of the Friendlier revolution!