Controller, Private Funds

PenderFund Capital Management Ltd (“Pender”) is an independent, employee-owned, value-based investment firm founded in 2003. We are one of the fastest growing investment firms in Canada, and our goal is to be the first choice for investors looking to protect and grow their capital. We have grown from a couple of people with a passion for investing into a diverse and inclusive workplace of over 80 people by seeking out and hiring the most qualified, talented, and experienced people.

We are seeking a Controller, Private Funds. This is an excellent opportunity to join Pender’s finance team in a leadership role that touches a broad cross-section of functional areas within the firm. Reporting to the Director of Finance, this key person’s responsibilities will include managing third-party administrator oversight, owning reporting and audit cycles, and ensuring robust internal control frameworks that support fund management related to Pender’s private funds business. As the Controller, Private Funds you will lead a team of two and act as a business partner across the company, developing strong relationships to support Pender’s strategic goals through financial insight, and collaborative execution.

Responsibilities will include:

Fund Accounting Oversight

• Overseeing financial and operations processes, including delivery of high-quality, accurate, timely financial information and materials, directly and/or indirectly through third-party fund administrators
• Ensure the integrity and accuracy of fund NAVs, fee accruals, and investment valuations.
• Ensure proper application of fund accounting policies and internal controls.
• Oversee preparation of quarterly and annual fund financial statements in accordance with ASPE/IFRS.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, tax, and audit standards for both funds and investors.
• Lead the development and enforcement of financial reporting processes and controls.

Audit & Tax Coordination

• Manage fund audits, serving as primary liaison between external auditors, fund administrators, and internal teams.
• Ensure complete and accurate documentation for audit cycles and tax reporting.
• Maintain audit-readiness through process documentation and cycle reviews.
  

Risk Management & Internal Controls

• Design and maintain control frameworks to detect and prevent errors in NAVs, cash flows, and investor allocations.
• Monitor risk indicators and drive continuous improvements to mitigate operational and financial risks.
• Champion best practices in fund governance and financial oversight.

Reporting & Data Integrity

• Maintain high standards of data quality across financial systems and reporting outputs.
• Ensure accurate, timely delivery of investor reporting, capital activity tracking, and performance metrics (e.g., IRR, waterfalls).
• Leverage automation and tools to enhance financial insights, analytics, and data consistency.

Strategic & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Partner with the Investment, Marketing, Sales and Product teams on fund development, capital activity, and strategic projects.
• Support fund launches, legal structuring, and operational setup.
• Respond to LP due diligence requests (e.g., DDQs, RFPs, ILPA templates) and internal performance queries.

Qualifications and experience:

• CPA designation required
• Six or more years of experience in fund accounting, audit within asset management or similar experience with a focus on private equity, venture capital or other alternative strategies
• In-depth knowledge of fund structures, ASPE/IFRS, and applicable regulatory frameworks
• Experience managing a small team as well as third-party fund administrators and audit relationships.
• Excellent communication skills
• Collaborative team player with a strong sense of accountability
• Strong technical skills including Excel

Considered an asset:

• Power BI, Tableau or similar skills will be considered an asset
• Chartered Business Valuator (CBV), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation
• Familiarity with both private and public company reporting

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary, bonus and benefits package.
• Opportunity to be part of a talented, collaborative and growing team

We are sharing that the estimated base salary range for this position is $130,000 - $150,000 per year. In determining final salary, Pender considers many factors including the candidate’s qualifications, relevant experience, job responsibilities, market conditions, position location and internal equity. Our aim is to ensure fair compensation practices that align with industry standards while acknowledging the unique value and expertise each individual brings to the role. The final base salary for the offer will be presented as part of a competitive compensation package.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion:  

Pender is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace that recognizes and values differences.  It is a core principle at Pender that an equitable, diverse and inclusive workplace simply makes us better. A diverse team with a range of knowledge and experience makes better decisions, which means better results for our stakeholders. We do not discriminate on any basis and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. When selecting candidates for employment, promotion, training, or any other benefits, it is on the basis of aptitude and ability. Should you require any accommodation or have questions, please let us know.