Chief Financial Officer

The Archbishop, visible principle of unity in his archdiocese, is called to build up the particular Church unceasingly in the communion of all its members, and to ensure that their diverse gifts and ministries, in union with the universal Church, serve to build up all the faithful and to spread the Gospel. (Apostolorum Successores 8). He must take care that all the affairs which belong to the administration of the whole archdiocese are duly coordinated and are ordered to attain more suitably the good of the portion of the people of God entrusted to him.” (Apostolorum Successores 177).

Each position employed in the Chancery helps to extend the ministry of the Archbishop in particular ways as outlined in the position description.

GENERAL SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE

The Chief Financial Officer administers the financial affairs of the Archdiocese of Seattle, under the Archbishop’s authority and according to Archdiocesan policies. This includes developing and executing financial strategies and initiatives aligned with the objectives and mission of the Catholic Church in Western Washington. The CFO directly supervises the Administration and Finance departments while serving as a resource person on financial and related matters for parishes, schools, and other Archdiocesan entities. In addition, serves as ex officio member of the board and board chair of the Associated Catholic Cemeteries, Fulcrum Foundation, Parish Revolving Fund Commission, St. Joseph Foundation, Catholic Community Services, Priest Board, and Archdiocesan Building Committee.

NOTE : This is an appointed position by the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Seattle and subject to Archdiocesan Policy pertaining to appointed positions. The Archbishop reserves the right to make modifications to the position description at his discretion and according to the provisions of canon law.

This position fulfills the requirements of the Code of Canon Law, Canon 494, that “In every diocese, after having heard the college of consultors and the Finance council, the bishop is to appoint a Finance officer who is truly expert in Financial affairs and distinguished for honesty.”

ESSENTIAL POSITION DUTIES

• Act as financial advisor to the Archbishop.
• In partnership with the Leadership Team, assess financial health, long / short term strategies, and prepares goals and objectives for the Archdiocese.
• Analyze and make recommendations pertaining to all major financial decisions and questions within the Archdiocese for its parishes, schools, and other Archdiocesan entities.
• Oversee and implement annual and long-term budgetary planning including the overall Strategic Operating Plan.
• Oversees and manages the annual audit processes, and preparation for the Annual Report.
• Oversee the management of investment accounts in collaboration with investment advisors including the Archdiocesan Finance Council.
• Serve as staff to, and works in collaboration with, the Archdiocesan Finance Council and other consultative bodies established by the Archbishop and COO.
• Makes recommendations for optimization of investments and financial capital.
• Responsible for overseeing the management, accounting, and audit of the Parish Financial Services.
• Directs the administration and management of the Archdiocese of Seattle Insurance program and risk management strategy, to include property, liability, and casualty insurance coverage.
• Leads the Catholic Real Estate Initiative including supporting the maintenance of, and construction management of facilities throughout the Archdiocese.
• Partners with the President of Associated Catholic Cemeteries in the operation of four regional cemeteries, ensuring management and financial viability in fulfilling their pastoral mission.

Staff Management

• Oversee the administrative and operational functions of the Finance, Investment, Parish Financial Services, Property & Construction, Real Estate, and Cemeteries Departments, including leading a team of approximately 35 staff members.
• Establish succession plans and provide leadership, training, mentoring, and performance feedback to department staff.

Qualifications

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

1. General :

• Willingness and ability to support the mission of the Church and the work of the Archbishop.
• Ability and desire to use God-given gifts and talents in service of the local Church in support of the collaboration between lay and ordained ministers.
• Active member of a parish / faith community in good standing with the Church.
• Demonstrated excellence in communications skills, both verbal and written, as well as interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated skills in leading, coaching, mentoring, developing, and assisting employees.

2. Education –

• BA or CPA required. MBA and / or financial certification preferred. Experience will be evaluated in lieu of MBA / Financial Certification.

3. Experience :

• At least 10 years of broad finance experience as a CFO or executive level position in Finance of a large, complex organization.
• Demonstrated record of progressive and relevant financial accomplishments.
• Demonstrated knowledge of, and experience in, staffing consultative structures.
• Experienced in successfully communicating complex financial and other quantitative information in ways that can be understood by a wide variety of audiences.
• Involvement at the local Catholic parish level and / or Archdiocesan level preferred.

4. Other Elements :

• Deep understanding of generally accepted accounting principles, non-profit accounting, budgeting, and audits.
• Demonstrated experience as a mature partner with senior leaders focused on Mission. Experience working with a non-profit board preferred.
• Strong analytical skills and experience translating strategic vision into an operational model.
• Ability to approach people in a manner that creates harmony and promotes collaboration.
• An effective communicator at all levels in the organization, with strong oral and written communication skills and a commitment to transparency.
• Comfortable working independently as well as participating as part of a team.
• Excellent supervisory, organizational, leadership and communication skills with ability to manage, inspire and motivate professional and support staff.
• Understanding and appreciation for this position as a ministry, not just a job.

Any offered salary is determined based on internal equity, internal salary ranges, market data, applicant’s skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications.

Benefits : Eligible positions receive a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and disability, long term disability, pension, 403(b), HSA, FSA, and generous sick leave, vacation and holidays.