Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFO/COO)

The Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFO/COO) is a senior leader, strategic thinker and trusted partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), responsible for translating the organization’s ambitions into sound financial strategy and effective day-to-day operations. This role requires someone who brings both rigor and judgment — someone who can independently manage complex financial and operational responsibilities while also serving as a steady, candid thought partner to organizational leadership. The CFO/COO directly manages the Accounting and Systems Coordinator (part-time employee) and serves as the primary contact for the Conservancy’s HR and IT consultants.

In partnership with the CEO and leadership team, the CFO/COO turns strategy into action by aligning teams, improving systems, harnessing AI and ensuring the organization’s operations, finances, and cross-functional work run effectively.

Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Strategy

• Lead financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes.
• Provide clear financial analysis and insights to support leadership and Board decision-making.
• Ensure accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial reporting and internal controls.
• Monitor and forecast cash flow to ensure operational and capital needs are met.
• Complete or oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, account reconciliations, and grants accounting processes with support of Accounting & Systems Coordinator.
• Manage and oversee annual audit process and Form 990 preparation.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, regulatory requirements, and nonprofit financial standards.
• Manage relationships with auditors, financial institutions, investment advisors, and other financial partners.
• Support the Finance and Investment Committees, including preparation of agendas, materials and presentations in collaboration with the Treasurer.

Operations and Administrative Leadership

The CFO/COO is responsible for ensuring effective execution across the organization by aligning teams, systems, and processes, harnessing AI and strengthening core operations. The CFO/COO works closely with the CEO as a key decision maker, acts as a proxy when needed, and leads the resolution of cross-functional challenges.

• Manage organizational planning and review processes (annual planning, budgeting, reviews and performance tracking).
• Oversee personnel, including payroll, benefits administration, HR compliance, and performance management systems, including management of third-party HR provider.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and development of staff in coordination with the leadership team.
• Manage third-party IT partner and oversee IT systems and infrastructure; identify opportunities for system improvements and automation.
• Manage organizational risk, including insurance coverage, contracts, and administrative compliance.

Qualifications

This is a full-time, exempt position with occasional evening commitments. The ideal candidate brings meaningful nonprofit financial leadership experience and has thrived in a role where the work required both technical depth and close collaboration with senior leadership. They are comfortable carrying independent credibility with boards, auditors, and external partners, and equally comfortable being a frank internal voice when it matters. Strong judgment, discretion, and genuine investment in the organization’s mission are essential.

Knowledge and Experience

• 10 years minimum experience in financial leadership and minimum 5 years in nonprofit finance, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CPA strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success managing operations and improving organizational systems.
• Experience in nonprofit organizations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.