Finance Director

About the role

The Finance Director leads and strengthens the organization’s financial management and long-term financial strategy. This role is responsible for ensuring the organization’s financial health, sustainability, and integrity while providing critical financial insight to inform decision-making and support organizational growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term financial strategies aligned with organizational goals and growth objectives
• Partner with the Treasurer, President & CEO, and Board to support investment strategy, including oversight of reserves and short- and long-term investment approaches
• Evaluate financial institutions, investment vehicles, and advisory partners to ensure alignment with organizational goals and risk tolerance
• Lead annual budgeting and multi-year financial forecasting processes
• Establish financial policies, systems, and controls that support scalability and sustainability
• Provide financial insights and scenario modeling to support strategic initiatives
• Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reconciliations
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports
• Maintain and enhance financial dashboards and reporting tools for leadership and board use
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial records and reporting systems (e.g., QuickBooks or equivalent)
• Provide executive oversight of the annual audit process, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and timely completion
• Oversee organizational banking relationships, ensuring optimal account structures, competitive rates, and cost-effective fee arrangements
• Monitor cash management practices and liquidity to support operational needs and strategic initiatives
• Provide strategic oversight of grant budgeting, financial tracking, and reporting
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and private funding requirements
• Review and approve grant-related financial reports and sub-awardee activities
• Strengthen internal controls and compliance frameworks
• Maintain direct, hands-on involvement in financial processes as needed, particularly in a lean team environment
• Lead financial process improvement and system enhancements, including identifying inefficiencies, implementing scalable solutions, and managing change across the organization
• Supervise and mentor finance staff
• Continuously improve financial systems, workflows, and efficiencies

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field (required)
• Master’s degree (MBA, MPA, or related field) strongly preferred
• Minimum of 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in finance or accounting
• Demonstrated experience in a senior-level or leadership finance role
• Experience in nonprofit, association, or grant-funded environments strongly preferred
• Experience with National Science Foundation (NSF) grants
• CPA, CMA, or equivalent professional certification preferred

Technical & Professional Skills

• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls
• Experience with cash management, reserves planning, and organizational investment strategies, including working with financial advisors or investment committees
• Proficiency with QuickBooks Online
• Demonstrated experience leading process improvement initiatives, system implementations, or organizational change management efforts within a finance function
• Ability to build and optimize financial workflows in a growing or evolving organization
• Proven ability to lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes
• Experience managing audits and working with external accounting firms
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial analysis tools

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance