Senior Analyst, Tax Policy - Finance

Job Summary

Reporting to the Manager, Revenue & Taxation, the Tax Policy Senior Analyst will provide financial analysis, reporting and commentary for property taxation, assessment and payment-in-lieu of taxes (PILTS).

Duties and Responsibilities

• Calculating the interim and final tax rates for the City, Region and School Boards including the rates specific to the BIA’s.
• Preparing tax ratio analysis and provides advice on potential use of tax ratio changes.
• Preparing the corresponding corporate reports and coordinates by-law changes with Legal Services.
• Monitoring tax policy related legislation to ensure calculation of taxes are compliant with current legislation.
• Reconciling assigned GL accounts monthly and prepare necessary journal entries; monitoring divisional budget.
• Maintaining the accuracy of the GL accounts that directly impact the integrity of the Tax software system and the receivables associated with it.
• Reconciling and preparing monthly tax cancellations communicated to Region of Peel and School Boards.
• Preparing year-end entries for accruals, levying distribution to Region and School Boards.
• Preparing requests for tax levy payments to the Region and School Boards based on the payment schedule.
• Calculating the interim and final billings for Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILTS) including the GTAA and Heads and Beds PILT, and issuing the associated bills.
• Determining the distribution of PILTS between the City, Region and School Boards.
• Calculating any PILT adjustments for supplementary assessment, tax or assessment appeals, and reconciling payments.
• Developing various property tax financial models and analysis as required.
• Supporting various other areas in the City by providing assessment analysis and tax levy requirements for special projects.
• Responding to inquiries from Council and Leadership with supporting calculations, analysis and recommendations for new budget requirements.
• Preparing tax related yearly Financial Information Return (FIR) report schedules.
• Responding to audit and information requests from the Region, School Boards and external auditors.
• Analyzing and interpreting the impact of reassessment; monitoring and analyzing assessment growth for budget and tax policy development.
• Monitoring the tax related non-departmental cost centres on a monthly basis, providing recommendations for budget adjustments and comments for variance reporting.
• Providing ad hoc assistance on special projects / initiatives.

Skills and Qualifications

• Completion of a post-secondary program from a recognized post-secondary institution, preferably in Business Administration, Finance or related field.
• Strong understanding of finance, accounting, and accounting terminology are required.
• Professional accounting designation (CPA) is an asset.
• Completion of the Municipal Tax Administration Program (MTAP) and/or receipt of the Certified Municipal Revenue Professional (CMRP) designation is an asset.
• Minimum three (3) years of related experience in a municipal or other public sector environment.
• Proficiency in financial analysis/modelling.
• Microsoft Office applications skills required.
• Knowledge of property tax software.
• Knowledge of property tax and assessment related legislation including the Municipal Act and the Assessment Act as amended.
• Excellent analytical and organizational skills with an ability to manage multiple projects and priorities, under pressing deadlines, are essential.
• Excellent research and written skills, including reading and interpreting legislation, regulations, and policies/standards required.
• Strong interpersonal and presentation skills required.
• Ability to work as part of a team with a demonstrated ability to collaborate and work in consultation with internal staff as well as external groups, agencies, corporations, and Members of Council.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Must have strong organizational, problem solving and decision making skills.
• The role requires business and political acumen when collaborating with internal staff and external groups.
• Staying informed of all regulations and legal requirements that may influence financial policy, projects, and initiatives.