Job Description
Background:
The BBI is the longest-serving Black business development initiative in Canada. The Black Business Initiative (BBI) was founded in 1996 by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia to address the unique needs confronting Nova Scotia’s Black business community. Since then, our organization has grown into a catalyst for job creation, equitable participation, and advancing economic prosperity across Canada. We support Black entrepreneurs every step of the way—from start-up and development to growth and expansion. We aim to help our clients compete nationally and internationally within the broader business landscape.
History
In 1995, a task force was formed that included community members to address the unique needs confronting the Nova Scotian Black business community at the time. After 18 community consultations, the task force created a report with its recommendations, delivering it to the government of the day. Key concerns identified were underdeveloped business skills, lack of access to capital, few role models, lack of knowledge of how to take advantage of financial programs, and discrimination at the institutional level. As a result, the Black Business Initiative was created and launched on October 25, 1996.
27 years later, the BBI remains committed to its vision to foster a dynamic and vibrant Black presence within Nova Scotia (and soon, the Atlantic provinces). Its ultimate mission is to bring a positive influence on the Nova Scotia business culture by promoting and assisting in the development of Nova Scotian Black-owned businesses. “We change lives by enabling economic independence of individuals and communities.” BBI has over twenty-five years of a “trusted & tested,” proven track record in business and economic development, entrepreneurship training, project management, and a team of seasoned experts on staff and in its network. We have a long history of convening and mobilizing, supporting, and leading consequential projects and initiatives within Black Canadian communities.
Purpose of Position
The Treasurer is responsible for overseeing the organization's financial administration, reviewing procedures and financial reporting, and advising the board on financial strategy and funding.
Principle Accountabilities
- Maintain knowledge of the organization and personal commitment to its goals and objectives.
- Understand financial accounting for nonprofit organizations.
- Serve as financial officer of the organization and as chairperson of the Audit and Risk Committee
- Manage, with the Audit and Risk Committee, the board’s review of and action related to the board’s financial responsibilities.
- Work with the CEO and the CFO to ensure that appropriate financial reports are made available to the board on a timely basis.
- Assist the CEO and the CFO in reviewing the annual budget and presenting the budget to the board for approval.
- Review the annual audit and answer the board members' questions about the audit.
- Review financial policies and procedures for the organization.
Please apply by emailing your resume directly to Matthew Martel, CEO at martel.matthew@bbi.ns.ca