Vice President Finance and Accounting

Key Responsibilities

• Support execution of financial strategy aligned with the YMCA’s strategic plan in partnership with the CFAO and executive leadership.
• Translate organizational priorities into financial plans that balance mission impact with long-term sustainability.
• Provide forward-looking financial analysis, scenario planning, and decision support.
• Provide financial analysis and operational support for organizational initiatives and planning efforts.
• Oversee all accounting functions, including:
  • Controllership
  • General ledger
  • Accounts payable/receivable
  • Payroll accounting
  • Manage month-end and year-end close
  • Ensure that financial systems and tools (TractionRec, Raiser’s Edge, and other systems) reconcile to the general ledger
  • Ensure timely, accurate financial reporting in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards
  • Maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements
  • Oversee preparation for and management of the annual external audit (including single audits, when necessary)
  • Identify and implement process improvements and other changes to ensure accurate accounting and reporting
• Support the annual budgeting process across all branches, programs, and departments.
• Establish forecasting processes (monthly/quarterly) to monitor performance and proactively manage variances.
• Provide actionable insights to operational leaders to improve financial performance.
• Drive consistency in financial planning across diverse program areas (examples include membership, camps, youth development, aquatics, etc.).
• Develop and monitor key financial metrics.
• Partner with Operations and HR to align financial performance with staffing models and service delivery.
• Provide clear, digestible reporting to leaders at all levels (Board, ELT, program leaders).
• Ensure strong internal control environment across all financial processes.
• Maintain compliance with: IRS nonprofit regulations, state and local requirements, grant and restricted fund requirements, including reporting requirements when applicable.
• Oversee financial policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Partner with Risk Management on financial exposure and mitigation strategies.
• Oversee cash flow management, banking relationships, and liquidity planning.
• Ensure appropriate reserves and financial safeguards are in place.
• Manage debt, investments, and capital structure in alignment with Board policies.
• Monitor debt covenants and forecast covenants for future reporting periods.
• Develop and maintain cash flow forecasting including a 13-week forecast.
• Lead, develop, and mentor the finance and accounting team.
• Build a high-performing, service-oriented finance function that supports operational leaders.
• Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth.
• Ensure appropriate staffing structure to support a complex, multi-site organization.
• Partner closely with:
  • People & Culture (HR) on payroll, benefits, and compensation strategy
  • Operations on program performance and staffing models
  • Development on fund accounting, grants, and restricted funds
• Partner with organizational leaders to provide clear financial insight and operational decision support.

Qualifications

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, or active progress toward licensure.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field (required).
• 8–10+ years of progressive financial leadership experience.
• Experience in nonprofit accounting is strongly preferred (YMCA or similar organization a plus).
• Advanced skills with Microsoft Excel (experience with data automation tools a plus).
• Experience leading finance in a multi-site organization strongly preferred.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Thinking – Connects financial decisions to mission and long-term sustainability.
• Financial Acumen – Deep expertise in accounting, reporting, and financial planning.
• Leadership – Builds and develops strong teams; leads through influence.
• Business Partnership – Effectively supports and challenges operational leaders.
• Analytical Rigor – Uses data to drive insight and decision-making.
• Communication – Translates complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights.
• Integrity & Stewardship – Upholds the highest standards of financial accountability.

Key Success Measures

• Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting.
• Strength of internal controls and audit outcomes.
• Budget adherence and forecasting accuracy.
• Improvement in key financial ratios (e.g., labor %, program margins).
• Leader satisfaction with financial support and partnership.
• Development and retention of high-performing finance team.

Work Environment & Impact

This role operates in a dynamic, mission-driven environment with multiple revenue streams, including membership, programs, camps, and philanthropy. The Vice President of Finance & Accounting plays a critical role in ensuring the YMCA remains financially strong while expanding its impact in the community.

YMCA Leadership Competencies
Mission Advancement
Collaboration
Operational Effectiveness
Personal Growth