Head of Finance job description

Job brief

To ensure that the charity complies with all financial accounting and governance requirements and achieves a clean external audit report. To ensure that the Executive team and Board, including all sub-committees, have accurate timely and relevant information on financial accounts and governance matters.

Responsibilities

• Direct the day-to-day accounting operations including oversight of accounts payable and receivable, and maintenance of the general ledger
• Prepare, analyze and present financial reports (income statements and balance sheets) in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly and annual financial statements to senior management
• Lead the annual budgeting and planning process in conjunction with the COO; administer and review all financial plans and budgets; monitor progress and changes and produce monthly budget versus actual reports
• Manage organizational cash flow and forecasting
• Oversee audit and tax functions, coordinate activities with outside audit/accounting firms and review firms’ performance
• Develop appropriate investment strategies and oversee their implementation
• Produce financial reports for foundation and other funder grants; maintain shared grant reporting calendar due dates and submissions, including all required financial deliverables as stated per grant awards and contracts
• Update and implement all necessary business policies and accounting practices; periodically update the organization’s accounting manual
• Remain up-to-date on best practices in nonprofit finance, business systems and internal control measures, and state and federal law regarding nonprofit operations

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field required; MBA/CPA preferred
• 5+ years relevant work experience as a senior accountant or equivalent; experience in nonprofit accounting required (e.g. revenue recognition, public support testing, 990 reporting)
• Previous experience in organizational financial management
• Capacity to multi-task and good time management skills
• Strong command of English language
• Grants and project management skills
• Communication and team coordination skills
• Knowledge about e-banking
• Knowledge about laws concerning finance and non-profit organizations