Chief Financial Officer Job

Position Summary:

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) reports directly to the President and is a key member of the Executive Team. This is a dual-role position that combines strategic CFO responsibilities with hands-on controller duties. The CFO manages the Office of Financial Services and serves as the institution’s top financial officer. They will be responsible for the integrity of financial operations, internal controls, and fiscal planning, and will directly manage and perform key accounting functions. The CFO also advises the Board of Trustees and leads a small team of four.

Core Top Skills:

•A fiscal advisor to the President/CEO and key executive administrators.
•Serves as both a strategic financial leader and a hands-on controller.
•Provides executive leadership over finance and accounting operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and compliance.
•Prepares, reviews, and analyzes financial statements, journal entries, account reconciliations, and general ledger activity.
•Leads and manages external audit processes, including audit preparation, coordination and timely submission of all required documentation.
•Implements and monitors internal controls to ensure accuracy, prevent fraud, and support audit readiness.
•Brings nonprofit finance expertise and experience with restricted/unrestricted funds and grants.

Key Responsibilities:

•Lead all daily accounting operations, including general ledger maintenance, bank reconciliations, month-end and year-end close, and preparation of financial statements.
•Ensure proper classification of transactions, accruals, and adjustments to support GAAP-compliant financial reporting.
•Develop and manage institutional budgets, forecasting processes, and financial planning initiatives.
•Maintain and strengthen internal control systems and procedures to ensure financial integrity and risk management.
•Supervise and support a team of four, including mentoring and guiding accounting staff.
•Ensure timely preparation and submission of reports for audits, regulatory compliance, grants, and accrediting agencies.
•Support and manage grant accounting, reporting, and compliance, in collaboration with department leaders.
•Liaise with the Board of Trustees on institutional financial health and strategic direction.
•Lead and execute audit preparation and respond to auditor inquiries to ensure a successful annual audit.
•Oversee and participate in cash flow management, investment monitoring, and short-term and long-term financial planning.
•Serve as a resource for departments regarding financial procedures, grant budgeting, and restricted fund usage.
•Champion and manage the institution’s financial systems and technology to ensure operational efficiency.
•Maintain a deep understanding of nonprofit financial requirements, fund accounting, and restricted funds compliance.

Minimum Job Requirements:

•A Bachelors degree in a relevant field of discipline is required; a Masters degree in a relevant field or discipline is preferred.
•At least 5 years of executive leadership experience working in higher education finance and accounting.
•CPA preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

•Ability to analyze and interpret financial data and prepare financial reports, statements and/or projections.
•Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
•Ability to interpret business and operational needs and develop integrated, creative solutions.
•Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
•Advanced analytical, evaluative, and objective critical thinking skills.
•Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of Federal and State financial laws, regulations, and operating guidelines as they pertain to public institutions of higher education.
•Demonstrated organizational and management skills.
•Employee development and performance management skills.
•Knowledge and understanding of fiscal control systems and procedures related to the safeguarding of institutional funds.
•Knowledge of current changes and/or developments in applicable federal, state, local laws, and university policies and procedures.
•Experience working in an educational or academic environment is preferred but not required.
•Skill in program planning, examining, and designing operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures at an institution of higher education.

Health/Dental Benefits, Retirement Benefits, Paid Holidays, Vacations, and Sick Leave, Life and/or Disability Insurance

The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a historically Black theological consortium dedicated to training and educating leaders for service in the church and society. Founded in 1958, ITC is committed to academic excellence, social justice, and spiritual formation. Our mission is to educate and empower morally and ethically grounded leaders who will serve in communities around the globe. We are a collaborative and mission-driven institution that values innovation, diversity, and faith-based leadership. ITC offers a unique and inspiring work environment for individuals who are passionate about higher education, community impact, and advancing theological scholarship.