Finance Controller & Head of Grants, Skyward

On behalf of our portfolio company, Skyward, we are seeking a entrepreneurial and detail-oriented Finance Controller & Head of Sales.

Skyward is a dynamic Canadian startup on a mission to make the world safer. Our cutting-edge technology can stop lightning and prevent out-of-control wildfires, protect communities, and avoid 5% of global GHG emissions. We combine science, big data, and machine learning to tackle one of nature's most unpredictable and devastating forces; lightning. If you’re passionate about making a real-world impact, we want you on our team!

Mission: Skyward’s mission is to save lives, ecosystems, and communities by preventing lightning from causing out-of-control fires on high-risk days. In Canada, in 2023, lightning caused 93% of area burned, community evacuations, billions in fire-fighting costs, and released an “India’s worth” of greenhouse gas (3x Canada’s entire economy). Hotter and drier forests, as a result of climate change, are making lightning more deadly. Preventing lightning wildfires is the lowest cost option globally for emissions reductions.

The Role: The Financial Controller will build our finance function from the ground up. This is a pivotal role for someone who is both entrepreneurial and detail-oriented, capable of managing the company’s financial operations, securing and managing grants, and overseeing compliance and administrative processes. The ideal candidate is comfortable rolling up their sleeves in a fast-paced startup environment, has experience with government procurement, and thrives on finding creative ways to save and earn.

This role will replace outsourced finance activities currently handled by a third-party services provider and build a scalable finance function that supports the company’s rapid growth. There is potential to grow this role into a Chief Financial Officer position as the company scales.

Key Responsibilities:

Finance, Tax & Accounting Operations

• Oversee all financial operations, including accounting, payroll, and bookkeeping.

• Build a scalable finance function that supports the company’s growth from 0 to 1.

• Manage tax compliance and mitigate financial risks.

• Prepare and present financial analysis, modeling & reports to the leadership team and board

• Ensure accurate and timely financial and tax reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.

Grant Management & Revenue Generation

• Identify and secure grant funding opportunities

• Manage the end-to-end grant process, from application to reporting.

• Ensure compliance with grant requirements and deadlines.

• Secure and oversee government funding through programs like IRAP and SR&ED.

HR Systems, Compliance, and Administration

• Administer payroll, benefits & HR systems to ensure compliance with regulations.

• Manage administrative processes related to financial and HR compliance.

• Ensure the company’s internal controls are effective and scalable.

Strategic Support & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, providing financial insights that drive decision-making.

• Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment on financial goals.

• Support the leadership team in financial planning and strategy execution.

Key Attributes & Qualifications:

Must-Have Attributes

• Business Savvy: Combine financial expertise with an entrepreneurial mindset to deliver value

• Grant Experience: Proven track record in securing and managing grants to generate revenue

• Strategic, Vocal, and Independent: Able to work autonomously while contributing to strategy

• X-Functional: Collaborates with other departments and adds positively to company culture

• Good Negotiator: Self-motivated and proven ability to save costs and increase revenue

• Builder: Thrives on creating and scaling processes from the ground up.

• CPA, CMA, or Equivalent: Professional accounting designation or equivalent

• Resiliency: Able to handle challenges and setbacks with perseverance

• Flexibility: Adaptable to evolving priorities and business needs.

• Ability to Pivot: Quick to adjust strategies and approaches to align with changing conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or Similar Experience: Advanced degree in business, finance, or accounting.

• Experience securing IRAP and SR&ED grants a strong asset.

• Comfortable Presenting to Boards: Experience preparing & presenting financial reports

• Government Procurement Experience: Strong understanding of government procurement processes and funding programs.

What We Offer:

• World-Changing Mission: Contribute to groundbreaking solutions to reduce wildfires

• Personal Growth: As an early team member, you can contribute and grow significantly

• A Collaborative, Fast-Paced Culture: Work alongside passionate individuals

• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Market compensation with the fun of a startup!