Director of Finance

Career Blazers Nonprofit Search; McHenry (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life

Job summary

Career Blazers Nonprofit Search is seeking a Director of Finance to lead the organization’s Finance, Accounting, and Grant Writing functions. You will supervise staff, work closely with the CEO and leadership team, and drive financial strategy, planning, and accountability across programs and pillars.

The role emphasizes GAAP compliance, external reporting, and grant funding oversight. A senior nonprofit background with supervisory experience is required, along with expertise in Sage Intacct and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required; Master's preferred
• MBA and/or CPA preferred
• 5+ years nonprofit experience preferred, with 5+ years in supervisory or senior management roles
• Demonstrates accountability for work quality, timeliness, and results with minimal supervision

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and supervision to finance and grant staff
• Serve on Senior Leadership Team and collaborate across pillars
• Lead monthly financial close and review meetings with accurate statements
• Oversee GAAP compliance and internal controls
• Manage relationships with external partners, grantors, and vendors
• Oversee budget planning and external audits
• Coordinate grant writing activities and reporting
• Ensure confidential handling of financial information and regulations

Skills

Leadership

Accountability

Time management

Prioritization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Master's degree in Accounting/Finance (preferred)

MBA or CPA (preferred)

Tools

Sage Intacct

Microsoft Office Suite

Solver

Paycom

Job description

Be a part of a nonprofit organization determined to create opportunities for children with developmental disabilities. Over the years, the organization has grown into a leader in building inclusive, equitable communities. Guided by a vision of a world where every person is valued and given equal opportunity, it is committed to supporting dignity, independence, and well-being. With a people-first culture at the heart of everything it does, the organization honors the courage of its founders by ensuring respect, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

As Director of Finance, you will lead and oversee the organization’s Finance, Accounting, and Grant Writing functions, including staff supervision and financial operations. Working closely with the CEO, leadership team, and the organization’s three Pillars, you will provide financial guidance and support strategic and operational initiatives. This collaborative role ensures sound financial management while strengthening organizational planning, accountability, and overall effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and supervision to the Financial Controller, Accounting Manager, Grant Writer, and Grant Administrator
• Serve as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, collaborating across organizational pillars and functions
• Lead monthly financial close and review meetings, ensuring accurate transactions, financial statements, reports, and organizational financial data
• Analyze and present timely financial reports to program and functional leaders, the Finance Committee, and Board of Directors
• Oversee internal controls, checks and balances, and compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)
• Partner with the CEO to review and manage legal and financial terms of contracts with vendors, partners, contractors, and agencies
• Develop, maintain, and improve finance and accounting policies, procedures, and functional reference materials
• Maintain transparent relationships with external partners, including grantors, funders, contractors, vendors, and consultants
• Oversee annual operating and capital budget planning with the Accounting Manager, including departmental and program budgets for CEO and Board approval
• Oversee external audits with the Financial Controller and coordinate required documentation and work papers
• Manage organizational cash flow and financial forecasting in partnership with the Financial Controller
• Provide financial information and reporting required by funding sources and grantors.
• Oversee the grant writing function, including applications, submissions, tracking, and reporting
• Ensure consistent, high-quality financial support and operations across programs, pillars, and administrative functions
• Collaborate with staff to advance strategic and operational objectives related to Finance, Accounting, and Grant Writing
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure compliance with organizational policies, regulations, and Code of Ethics

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required; Master's degree in Accounting or Finance preferred. MBA and/or CPA preferred
• 5+ years of nonprofit experience preferred, with 5+ years in supervisory or senior management roles
• Demonstrates accountability for work quality, timeliness, and results with minimal supervision; effectively manages time, priorities, and resources
• Adapts effectively to changing business needs, priorities, and responsibilities
• Maintains strict confidentiality of financial, organizational, and stakeholder information
• Develops creative solutions and effectively resolves complex workplace challenges
• Makes timely, informed decisions based on facts, goals, constraints, and risks
• Builds trust and maintains professional, respectful relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Fosters teamwork, cooperation, and commitment to achieve organizational goals and deliverables
• Proficiency with Sage Intacct, Microsoft Office Suite, Solver, and Paycom

Compensation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance