Public Sector Finance Director - Strategy & Stewardship

Experience Champaign Urbana; Illinois; On-site; USD 89,000 - 106,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Group insurance plans

IMRF Pension eligibility

Paid time off

Job summary

Champaign County Forest Preserve District is seeking a Finance Director to lead the financial operations for the Forest Preserves and affiliated Foundation. You will oversee budgeting, accounting, audits, purchasing, payroll, grants reporting, and policy development to ensure efficient, compliant financial management.

Reporting to the Executive Director, you will supervise a three-person Finance Department, contribute to strategic planning, and coordinate with the Board and Foundation leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance; Master’s or CPA/CPFO desired.
• Minimum 7 years finance/accounting experience, with 3+ years supervisory.
• 3+ years in a government agency.
• Experience with computerized fund accounting; governmental accounting preferred.
• Experience with third-party financial audits preferred.
• Illinois driver’s license within 6 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage all financial activities including budgeting, accounting, auditing, purchasing, payroll, grants, and reporting for the Forest Preserves and Foundation.
• Lead long-range budget planning and coordinate with management on capital and staffing needs.
• Oversee procurement, bid/quote processes, and ensure legal compliance.
• Coordinate bond issuances, debt, refinancing, and disclosure reports.
• Establish internal audit controls and ensure GAAP and 501(c)(3) compliance; support annual audits.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Public relations

Confidentiality

Highly organized

Independent judgment

Public speaking

Team leadership

Complex info delivery

Education

Accounting/Finance degree

Business admin with accounting major

Master's or CPA/CPFO desired

Job description

Champaign County Forest Preserve District is seeking a Finance Director to lead the financial operations for the Forest Preserves and affiliated Foundation. You will oversee budgeting, accounting, audits, purchasing, payroll, grants reporting, and policy development to ensure efficient, compliant financial management.

Reporting to the Executive Director, you will supervise a three-person Finance Department, contribute to strategic planning, and coordinate with the Board and Foundation leadership