Assistant Controller

About Cape

The Cape Group is a three-generation, family-run, vertically integrated real estate group of companies operating across Western Canada since 1956. With over 60 years of experience in development, construction, and property management, we’ve built a diverse portfolio and earned many industry firsts.

From high-rises to warehouses, office buildings to master-planned communities, we create high-quality projects that enhance the vibrancy of neighborhoods, and we make sure to have fun while we’re at it. Our commitment to quality and strong relationships is at the forefront of everything we do.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Assistant Controller (Contract) to join our finance team on a maternity leave contract. Reporting to the CFO and CEO and working closely with senior management, this role will oversee full-cycle accounting, financial reporting, payroll, and cash management for our corporate, construction, and project entities. This is a hands-on role supporting ongoing development and construction activity across the Cape Group. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining financial continuity during the maternity leave period and ensuring timely reporting, compliance, and operational support.

The Candidate

You are a strong accounting professional with solid technical expertise and the ability to step into a senior role with minimal ramp-up time. You are comfortable managing multiple entities, tight reporting deadlines, and complex transactions in a project-based environment. You are proactive, highly organized, and confident working independently while collaborating closely with accounting, operations, and external stakeholders. Experience mentoring junior staff and navigating audits and payroll compliance is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Close

Prepare and complete full-cycle month-end closings for corporate, construction, and project companies

Prepare year-end adjusting entries, supporting schedules, and detailed working papers

Provide monthly analysis on operational and financial results, including variance analysis

Audit & Compliance

Lead the year-end review and audit process and act as the primary liaison with external auditors

Prepare audit schedules, respond to auditor inquiries, and address findings in a timely manner

File GST returns and ensures compliance with applicable regulations

Payroll & Statutory Remittances

Process and review payroll for all employees

Prepare and issue T4 slips and complete year-end payroll reporting

Remit payroll deductions and statutory payments, including CPP, EI, WCB, and EHT

Cash Management & Banking

Review mid-month and month-end cheques

Manage bank draws, cash calls, and funding requirements

Prepare and maintain cash flow forecasts

Oversee cash distributions across multiple bank accounts

Leadership & Systems

Mentor and support accounting staff, providing guidance and oversight

Assist with new company setups and accounting system conversions

Ensure internal control policies are followed and recommend process improvements

Other Responsibilities

Perform other accounting duties and special projects as assigned by management

Qualifications

CPA designation or completion of CPA PEP program is required

5+ years of progressive accounting experience (real estate and construction experience is a strong asset)

Strong understanding of full-cycle accounting, payroll, and compliance requirements

Experience managing multiple entities and project-based accounting environments

Advanced Excel skills and experience with accounting systems (e.g., Sage 300CRE, MRI, SAP Concur, QuickBooks)

Benefits

Extended health benefits

Paid vacation, personal and sick leave

Position Details

Location: Vancouver office

Employment Type: Full-time, maternity leave contract

Start Date: TBD

Salary: Commensurate with experience