Close Up Foundation
Chief Financial Officer
Close Up Foundation, Arlington, Virginia
Company Overview Close Up is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, civic education organization that aims to inform, inspire, and empower young people to become active participants in our democracy. We believe a strong democracy requires engagement by all citizens. Therefore, we seek to reach youth from all communities and all backgrounds, regardless of race, religion, gender, socioeconomic level, or academic standing. Since 1971, we have partnered with schools nationwide to serve more than one million students and educators through experiential programs in our nation’s capital and in local communities, professional development for educators, and curriculum and resource design. Position Overview The chief financial officer (CFO) will oversee all financial aspects of the organization, ensuring financial sustainability and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and other regulatory requirements. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the CFO will strategize, implement, track, and forecast financial policies that support the organization’s mission. This role requires an active CPA certification to ensure adherence to professional standards of accounting and financial reporting. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Financial Analysis, Budgeting, and Forecasting Prepare and present monthly financial budgeting reports forecast vs. budget by department and monthly cash flow projections. Review and analyze monthly financial results and provide recommendations. Identify, develop, and execute analysis of business initiatives, product launches, and/or new service offerings. Develop and maintain a monthly operating budget and annual operating budget. Manage the financial planning and analysis department and supervise the creation of reports, software implementation, and tools for budgeting and forecasting. Participate in weekly meetings with the executive leadership team. Strategy, Planning, and Management Act as CFO and strategic business partner to the executive leadership team. Assess and evaluate the financial performance of the organization with regard to long-term operational goals, budgets, and forecasts. Provide insight and recommendations to both the short-term and long-term growth plan of the organization. Identify, acquire, and implement systems and software to provide critical financial and operational information. Evaluate departments and make suggestions for automating processes and increasing working efficiency. Communicate, engage, and interact with the Board of Directors and the executive leadership team. Create and establish yearly financial objectives that align with the company’s plan for growth and expansion. Select and engage consultants, auditors, and investors. Implement policies, procedures, and processes as deemed appropriate by the senior leadership team. Financial Relations and Policies Engage the finance committee and/or Board of Directors to develop short-term and long-term plans, projections, and budgets. Represent the company to banks, institutions, investors, and auditors, and manage relationships with financial partners. Remain current on audit best practices as well as state, federal, and local laws regarding company operations. Finance, Accounting, and Human Resources Team Management Mentor and develop a finance team, managing work allocation, systems training, performance evaluations, and the building of an effective and efficient team dynamic. Oversee the Human Resources Department. Cash Management Oversee weekly cash management and the Accounts Payable Department, approve large payables, sign checks, and authorize large wires and ACHs. Supervise Accounts Receivable management and provide guidance relating to the collection process. Compliance and Reporting Ensure full compliance with GAAP and all applicable financial regulations, including Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) standards for nonprofit organizations. Lead annual financial audits and act as the primary point of contact with external auditors, ensuring the audit process runs smoothly and efficiently. Oversee the preparation of all financial statements, ensuring accuracy and timeliness, and present financial information to management, the Board of Directors, auditors, and external stakeholders as required. Risk Management Develop and implement a comprehensive risk management strategy, including internal controls, to protect the organization’s assets. Assess organizational risks and implement strategies to mitigate financial risks, including the development of reserve policies. Education and Experience Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a minimum of ten years of relevant experience and/or training in finance or accounting. Active CPA certification is required. Five or more years in a leadership role, preferably in a nonprofit organization. Extensive knowledge of GAAP, FASB standards, and financial reporting requirements for nonprofits. Proven experience with financial forecasting, budgeting, and risk management. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present financial information to internal and external stakeholders. Excellent employee relations and external relationship-building capabilities. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in financial software and ERP systems, ideally Microsoft Dynamic Business Central (formerly Microsoft Dynamic NAV). Compensation and Benefits Close Up provides a comprehensive benefits package which includes two robust medical insurance plans, dental insurance (more than 90 percent of premiums are company-paid), and vision coverage. Close Up pays 100 percent of the premiums for life/AD&D insurance and short- and long-term disability insurance, and offers flexible spending and dependent care accounts, a 403(b) retirement savings program, paid vacation/sick days/holidays, paid parental leave, a Metro subsidy or free garage parking, free gym access, and a positive work environment. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume describing why this position is the right fit for your skills and experience. No phone calls or recruiters, please. Close Up Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. J-18808-Ljbffr