HEAD BOOKKEEPER

Reports To: President/CEO

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Location: Remote- AB or BC Based

POSITION SUMMARY

The Head Bookkeeper plays a central role in delivering high-quality accounting and administrative services to a diverse portfolio of clients. This role is remote and is responsible for the full-cycle bookkeeping needs of multiple clients, including onboarding, payroll administration, accounts payable, month-end close, statutory remittances, and regulatory filings. The Head Bookkeeper is a trusted mentor and resource for junior team members, fostering professional growth through training, guidance, and ongoing support. The role also contributes to the integrity of internal operations by ensuring compliance, accounting best practices, and quality standards across all client accounts.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Client Onboarding & Relationship Management

· Facilitate the onboarding of new clients, including the collection of financial records, set-up of accounting software, and establishment of chart of accounts.

· Conduct initial client meetings to assess bookkeeping needs, workflows, and reporting preferences.

· Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned clients, providing timely and professional communication.

· Document client-specific processes and maintain organized, up-to-date client files.

Payroll Administration

· Process full-cycle payroll for multiple clients across various pay frequencies (bi-weekly).

· Set up new employees, manage terminations, and ensure accurate record-keeping in payroll systems.

· Prepare and file T4s, Records of Employment (ROEs), and other payroll-related government forms.

· Respond to client and employee payroll inquiries with accuracy and discretion.

Accounts Payable & Receivable

· Process vendor invoices, verify coding accuracy, and manage payment runs for client accounts.

· Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.

· Assist with accounts receivable functions including invoicing, collections follow-up, and cash application as required.

· Maintain accurate subledger records and ensure transactions are properly coded to the general ledger.

Month-End Close & Reporting

· Perform full month-end close procedures for assigned clients, including bank and credit card reconciliations, journal entries, accruals, and prepaid amortization.

· Prepare and deliver accurate monthly financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow) within agreed timelines.

· Investigate and resolve reconciling items and unexplained variances promptly.

· Maintain organized working paper files in accordance with firm standards.

GST, PST & Statutory Filings

· Prepare and file GST/HST returns for clients on monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting periods.

· Prepare and file BC PST returns where applicable, ensuring compliance with provincial requirements.

· Track and meet all filing and remittance deadlines; communicate upcoming obligations to clients proactively.

· Stay current on CRA and provincial tax regulation updates that impact client filings.

Training, Mentorship & Compliance

· Provide hands-on training and guidance to junior or intermediate bookkeepers, supporting their professional development.

· Review work prepared by junior staff for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with firm standards.

· Develop and maintain internal process documentation, checklists, and training materials.

· Ensure all client files adhere to regulatory requirements and internal quality control procedures.

· Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the department.

Administrative Duties

· Maintain accurate and up-to-date digital and physical client files in accordance with records retention policies.

· Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, and CRA representatives as needed.

· Assist with year-end preparation and working paper compilation for assigned clients.

· Support the broader team with ad hoc administrative and accounting tasks as required.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Education & Certification

• Diploma or degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.

• CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper) designation, or active enrollment, is considered a strong asset.

Experience

· Minimum 3–5 years of full-cycle bookkeeping experience, must have experience in a multi-client or public practice environment.

· Demonstrated experience processing payroll and handling CRA statutory filings.

· Experience onboarding clients or training staff is a significant asset.

Technical Skills

· Proficiency in QuickBooks Online

· Working knowledge of payroll platforms (e.g. Wagepoint, Payworks, ADP).

· Working knowledge of payment platform (e.g. Plooto, Xero, Zoho)

· Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

· Familiarity with CRA My Business Account, Represent-a-Client portal, and provincial tax filing portals.

Core Competencies

· Highly developed communication skills

· High degree of accuracy and strong attention to detail

· Excellent organizational and time management skills; ability to manage multiple client deadlines simultaneously

· Strong written and verbal communication skills; professional and client-focused demeanor

· Sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential financial information

· Collaborative team player with the initiative to work independently when required

· A trainer/educator at heart to junior bookkeepers and administrators

Background Check Requirement

A background check will be required for the successful candidate due to the nature of the Head Bookkeeper role. This position involves access to sensitive financial information, client records, banking transactions, payroll data, and other confidential business information. Conducting a background check helps ensure the integrity, reliability, and trustworthiness required to perform the duties of the position while safeguarding our client’s financial assets and confidential information.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position operates primarily in remote arrangements based on firm policy. The role requires the ability to manage competing deadlines and maintain high accuracy under time pressure. Occasional extended hours may be required during peak periods such as year-end and tax filing seasons.

COMPENSATION

$55k to $60K per annum

DKC PERKS & BENEFITS

· Health Spending Account (HSA)

· Company-supported professional development and training

· Collaborative and supportive team environment

· Remote-first workplace with flexible work arrangements

· Opportunities for growth and career advancement

· Monday to Friday work week