Work with purpose. Lead with impact. Join a mission-driven team committed to empowering diverse communities, fostering economic equity, and creating meaningful impact every day.
Benefits
OUR MISSION
“To strengthen the asset base of diverse populations through policy, education and economic opportunities“
OUR VISION
“Economic Prosperity for Diverse Populations”
OUR VALUES
Trust • Excellence • Innovation • Collaboration
See open positions below. Unless otherwise noted, all interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to hr@theinstitutenc.org.
JOB TITLE: Chief Financial Officer
REPORTS TO: President & CEO
PROGRAM: Finance
PROGRAM PARTNER: Executive Team
LOCATION: Durham, NC
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt
TYPE: Full-Time
SALARY: Not Published
Position Summary
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is responsible for the strategic oversight and management of the organization’s financial health, ensuring long-term sustainability and operational excellence. This role oversees all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, reporting, and compliance functions while providing strategic financial guidance to the President & CEO, Board of Directors, and key stakeholders. The CFO will work collaboratively with the executive leadership team to drive financial efficiency, optimize resources, and support the organization’s mission and growth objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Financial Leadership & Planning
- Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the organization’s mission and long-term goals.
- Advise the President & CEO and Board of Directors on financial matters, ensuring informed decision-making.
- Provide financial forecasting, risk assessment, and scenario analysis to support strategic planning.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legal, and tax requirements.
Financial Operations & Reporting
- Oversee and manage all aspects of financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, reporting, and internal controls.
- Ensure the accurate and timely preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles).
- Maintain and improve internal financial controls to mitigate risk and enhance efficiency.
- Prepare and present financial reports to the Board of Directors, finance committee, and executive team on a quarterly and as-needed basis.
Budgeting & Resource Management
- Develop and monitor annual budgets for the organization, including individual programs, grants, and new initiatives.
- Oversee cash flow management, investment activities, and financial sustainability strategies.
- Lead efforts to optimize financial resources while ensuring fiscal discipline and accountability.
Audit, Compliance & Risk Management
- Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors to ensure a smooth and timely annual audit process.
- Oversee financial compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as grant and donor requirements.
- Assess financial risks and develop strategies to mitigate them effectively.
Collaboration & Leadership
- Partner with the HR Director on employee benefits, payroll, and financial aspects of human resources management.
- Work closely with program directors and leadership to ensure financial sustainability and compliance with funder requirements.
- Track and analyze key financial KPIs and trends to drive strategic decision-making.
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience as a CFO, preferably within a non-profit organization.
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration (MBA preferred).
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation (required)
- 5-10 years of progressive financial management experience, with a focus on non-profit accounting and compliance.
- Strong understanding of GAAP, internal controls, and financial reporting for non-profits.
- Demonstrated experience managing a capital campaign
- Demonstrated experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management.
- Proficiency in non-profit accounting software (e.g., SAP, Blackbaud) and advanced Excel skills.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights for leadership and staff.
- Experience managing finances for a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).
- Familiarity with grant and donor fund accounting principles.
- Experience in Real Estate, Affordable Housing, and/or Community Development. (preferred).
- Experience with federal, state, and local government funding. (preferred).
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to lead the financial strategy of a mission-driven organization, making a tangible impact on our community. If you are a dynamic, strategic, and hands-on financial leader passionate about non-profit finance and operational excellence, we invite you to apply.