POSITION SUMMARY                                                                                                                                     

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will be responsible for the accuracy and integrity of the organization’s finances. The CFO will oversee the organization’s financial well-being, manager and direct the finance and accounting team, and serve as the primary adviser in all financial decision-making. This role will work together with the CEO, CPO and advancement team to strengthen the organization’s financial position, as well as engage with donors and the Board of Directors for all reporting and monetary matters.  

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES                                                                                                                   

• Strategic Financial Leadership

o Develop and implement long-term financial strategies aligned with the organization's mission and goals

o Provide strategic financial advice to the CEO, senior leadership, and Board of Directors

o Identify and analyze financial opportunities and risks, recommending innovative solutions

• Financial Performance and Analysis

o Oversee high-level financial analysis and performance metrics

o Translate complex financial data into actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders

o Lead scenario planning and financial modeling for strategic initiatives

• Fundraising and Donor Relations

o Collaborate with development team to create compelling financial narratives for donors

o Participate in high-level donor meetings and fundraising strategies

o Ensure transparent and impactful financial reporting to donors and stakeholders

• Board and External Relations

o Present financial strategies and performance to the Board of Directors

o Serve as a key liaison with external auditors, banks, and financial partners

o Represent the organization in financial matters with key stakeholders

• Financial Risk Management and Compliance

o Oversee high-level risk management strategies

o Ensure organizational compliance with relevant financial regulations and best practices

o Guide the development of financial policies that balance growth with prudent risk management

• Team Leadership and Development

o Provide mentorship and strategic guidance to the controller and finance team

o Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement in financial processes

o Collaborate with other departments to align financial strategies with programmatic goals

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE                                                                                                             

All employees of College Advising Corps are expected to possess and exhibit the following consistently: 

• A dedication to an interdisciplinary, collaborative approach to work 

• Passion for supporting the organization’s mission and for maintaining programmatic excellence 

• Proven success working with individuals of diverse backgrounds 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and assignments simultaneously, often with competing deadlines 

• Communication skills that allow for productive sharing, debate, and exchange of information and ideas, whether verbally or in writing 

• Willingness to engage digitally in establishing rapport and growing relationships with colleagues in a virtual work environment 

In order to perform successfully as a Chief Financial Officer, you must be a results-driven individual with at least 10-12 years of experience in accounting and/or finance, preferably in a non-profit environment. The ideal candidate will hold a related Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree and/or Certified Public Accounting helpful, but not required) and will also have/be: 

• Extensive knowledge and experience with computerized general ledger systems, spreadsheet design, database management, and reporting. 

• At least 10 years’ experience (preferably in a nonprofit environment), including preparation of financial statements and general ledger maintenance 

• Proven experience in drafting and presenting reporting to a Board of Directors 

• Leading and managing budget forecasting activity (preferably in a non-profit setting) 

• Ability to research OMB Uniform Guidance, understand and apply complex federal, state, local, and other laws, regulations, and guidelines to various accounting, payroll, and grant-related functions and procedures 

• At least five years of supervisory experience 

• Demonstrable experience coordinating audit activities and managing reporting, budget development and analysis, accounts payable and receivable, general ledger, payroll, and accounting for investments 

• A track record in grants management as it relates to compliance and reporting of government, corporate, and foundation grants 

• Fund and government contract accounting experience preferred 

• Detailed-oriented with an exceptional focus on accuracy 

• Ability to utilize sound judgment and decision-making skills, solve problems quickly and effectively, meet multiple deadlines, and work effectively under pressure in a high-paced, dynamic environment 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, to include comfort as a presenter 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS                                                                                                                             

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 

• Ability and willingness to travel. 

• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times. 

This job description is intended to provide general information about the position.  It is not an employment contract and is not intended as a complete list of all job roles and responsibilities.  The incumbent may be required to perform other roles and responsibilities.  As with all positions, the responsibilities, roles, and requirements of this job may change.  The organization, at its discretion, may alter this job description at any time with or without notice.