Background
Equitas | International Centre for Human Rights Education is a Canadian nonprofit organization with multi-project funding and annual audited financial statements. We are seeking to retain an independent CPA to support management and the finance team during audit preparation and throughout the year.
Objectives
- Strengthen audit readiness and efficiency
- Improve quality and timeliness of financial reporting
- Reduce audit findings and management letter issues
- Provide ongoing guidance and clarification to the finance team on accounting matters
Scope of work
The CPA will provide advisory and preparatory services, including but not limited to:
- Audit preparation
- Review of financial statements, schedules and notes
- Technical accounting advice (nonprofit standards)
- Internal control review and recommendations
- Ongoing advisory support for the finance team to answer questions and provide guidance
- Ad hoc support during audit and year-end periods
Expected deliverables
- Audit-ready working papers and schedules
- Written or verbal feedback on draft financial statements
- Recommendations for process or control improvements (as needed)
- Timely responses to finance team questions
Duration
- Initial term: 12 months
- Renewable annually
Level of effort
Estimated: an average of 10 hours per month (with higher concentration during audit season)
Required qualifications
- CPA designation (Canada)
- Demonstrated experience with Canadian nonprofits
- Experience supporting organizations during external audits
- Knowledge of restricted funds and contribution accounting
- Strong advisory skills to guide non-CPA finance teams
Proposal requirements
- Relevant experience and approach
- Proposed retainer structure and hourly rates
- Confirmation of independence from our external auditor
Submission instructions:
Deadline to apply: January 29th, 2026
Proposals must be submitted in PDF format to rh@equitas.org by the final submission deadline January 29.