Job Description
Bilingual Senior Accounting & Tax Consultant – ERP Implementation (Advisory Only)
Engagement Type: Independent Consultant / Contractor (No payroll, no operational duties)
Location: Canada (Remote / Hybrid)
Compensation: Consulting Fees
Engagement Manager: Project Finance Lead
Industry: Catering / Food & Beverage
About the Role
We are seeking a bilingual (English & French) independent Senior Accounting & Tax Consultant to advise, guide, and train our client’s finance and operations teams during the implementation of an ERP system. This is a pure advisory engagement - the consultant will never perform operational accounting or tax tasks. Instead, they will define strategies, design processes, configure ERP modules from a functional perspective, train full-time employees (FTEs), and ensure knowledge transfer so that the client’s team can operate independently and correctly.
The consultant will be responsible for their own taxes, GST/HST remittances, insurance, and statutory contributions. No payroll, benefits, or deductions will be provided.
Key Responsibilities (Advisory, Strategic, and Educational)
1. Accounting & Tax Strategy Advisory
- Advise on the definition of accounting and tax strategies aligned with Canadian regulations (CRA) and standards (ASPE / IFRS).
- Guide the design of internal controls, protocols, and processes to ensure accurate financial and tax reporting.
- Define the chart of accounts, formulas, and any parameters required for proper accounting and tax effects across all ERP modules.
- Clarify deviations and educate users on resolution processes.
2. ERP Functional Configuration Support
- Support the client’s team in configuring ERP financial modules (Odoo preferred) from a functional standpoint: tax rules, accounting rules, and integration with other modules (sales, inventory, payroll, billing).
- Ensure that all operational modules (e.g., catering events, POS, inventory) correctly impact accounting and tax modules.
- Advise on data migration, validation, and reconciliation between legacy and new systems.
- Participate in functional and integration testing from an advisory perspective, ensuring business requirements are met.
3. Training, Knowledge Transfer & Evangelization
- Train FTEs and operational staff on accounting and tax processes within the ERP.
- Evangelize stakeholders (finance, operations, IT) on accounting and tax implications of ERP operations.
- Ensure that knowledge is fully transferred to each individual, so the client can sustain the system without external dependency.
- Develop manuals, procedures, and training materials as needed.
4. Process Definition & Documentation
- Map and document AS-IS / TO-BE processes with a focus on accounting and tax impacts.
- Define administrative and financial protocols, controls, and best practices.
- Identify opportunities for automation and process improvement from a strategic standpoint.
Non-Operational Clause
The consultant will not perform day-to-day accounting, bookkeeping, tax filing, or any operational tasks. Their role is strictly advisory, strategic, and educational. All operational execution remains the responsibility of the client’s FTEs.
Requirements (Must-Haves)
- Experience: Minimum 5 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in an advisory or implementation role for ERP systems.
- Canadian Tax Expertise: Deep knowledge of Canadian tax legislation (CRA), including GST/HST, payroll taxes, and corporate compliance. Familiarity with ASPE / IFRS.
- ERP Functional Knowledge: Hands-on experience configuring or advising on ERP financial modules (Odoo is a strong plus; SAP B1, Oracle Netsuite, Microsoft Dynamics also acceptable).
- Industry Background: Experience in catering, food & beverage, or hospitality is highly desirable (inventory, event revenue recognition, tips reporting).
- Training & Communication: Proven ability to train, mentor, and evangelize non-financial stakeholders. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Languages: Professional/Advanced English AND French are indispensable (bilingual). Spanish is an asset.
Consultant Requirements
- Must be legally authorized to work in Canada as an independent contractor.
- Must be fully bilingual in English and French (professional proficiency).
- Must have a valid GST/HST registration number (or be willing to register).
- Must carry professional liability insurance (E&O) if required.
- Responsible for own income tax, CPP/EI, and any other statutory remittances.
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.
- Specialization in Canadian Tax or Accounting.
- Desirable: Canadian CPA designation (or in progress), ERP certifications, PMP.
KPIs for Success
- Quality and clarity of accounting/tax strategies and process definitions.
- Accuracy of ERP configuration from a functional standpoint (as validated by FTEs).
- Effectiveness of training and knowledge transfer (measured by FTE autonomy).
- Reduction of manual processes and system adoption rate.
- Timely delivery of advisory milestones within the implementation project.
Ideal Candidate Profile
A seasoned accounting and tax professional who thrives as an advisor, strategist, and educator. They combine deep Canadian tax knowledge with ERP functional expertise and a passion for transferring knowledge. They are not looking for an operational role, but rather to guide, train, and evangelize. Fully bilingual in English and French.
