JOB SUMMARY: The Finance Director at Cook Inlet Native Head Start (CINHS) is pivotal in leading financial operations. This position ensures effective management and oversight of financial resources, maintains compliance with regulations, and supports strategic financial planning. The Finance Director collaborates closely with the Executive Director and other team members to drive financial performance, support programmatic goals, and enhance organizational sustainability.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Financial Management

1. Oversee all financial operations, ensuring accurate and complete fiscal records are kept to effectively manage, control, and evaluate the organization's economic health.
2. Manage agency cash and investments, develop and maintain strategic relationships with banks and financial institutions, and implement strategies to optimize financial resources.
3. Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure effective management, compliance, and alignment with organizational goals.
4. Assist the Executive Director with business-related tasks, including required city, state, and federal filings, tax-exempt paperwork, insurance needs, and other compliance requirements.

2. Financial Reporting and Analysis

1. Prepare and submit financial reports for funding agencies and governing bodies.
2. Oversee the preparation for and execution of the annual audit process and the preparation of the Form 990 tax return, ensuring all necessary documentation and compliance requirements are met.
3. Monitor budget to actuals and forecasts monthly, prepare a detailed analysis of variances for the Executive Director, and recommend corrective actions as needed.
4. Support the preparation of budgets for new grant/program proposals and initiatives, providing financial insights and forecasts to aid decision-making.

3. Strategic Financial Planning

1. Regularly review current processes for efficiency, recommend process improvements, and oversee the implementation of key initiatives (including software).
2. Establish key financial outcomes and performance measures for program areas, track these metrics regularly, and make necessary adjustments to meet financial goals.
3. Work with the Executive Director to prepare an annual consolidated budget for the organization, including cash flow forecasting, to ensure comprehensive financial planning and alignment with strategic objectives.

NECESSARY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

1. Cultural Knowledge: Must be familiar with Alaska Native/American Indian heritage and culture and be able to serve and effectively communicate with the children and families enrolled in the CINHS program.
2. Financial Expertise: In-depth understanding of accounting principles, including GAAP, economic regulations, Uniform Guidance, and best practices related to financial management and grant administration.
3. Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess financial performance, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions—the ability to research relevant information and apply findings to CINHS’ operations.
4. Technical Proficiency: Skilled in financial software and budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting systems.
5. Grant Management: Expertise in managing federal and state grants, including preparing proposals and financial reports and ensuring compliance with grant requirements. Familiarity with Head Start grants is highly preferred.
6. Reporting: Ability to prepare and analyze comprehensive financial reports, including those for audits and tax filings (e.g., Form 990), ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP and relevant regulations.
7. Internal Controls: Experience in developing and maintaining adequate internal controls, financial policies, and procedures to safeguard organizational assets.
8. Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with senior management, board members, and external stakeholders, including banks and funding sources.
9. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple financial operations, track key performance metrics, and implement process improvements.
10. Leadership: Proven leadership skills with experience supervising financial staff, fostering a collaborative work environment, and guiding teams toward achieving economic objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field; a master’s degree or CPA designation is preferred.
2. Five (5) years or more of experience in financial management, including substantial experience with grants management, budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance.
3. Demonstrated expertise in managing federal and state grants, including preparing grant proposals and compliance with requirements; experience with Head Start grants is highly preferred.
4. Comprehensive knowledge of accounting principles, financial regulations, and best practices related to grant management.
5. Current First Aid and CPR certification or must obtain certifications within six (6) months of hire.
6. Must successfully complete TB and hepatitis screening exams and any required vaccinations.
7. Must be able to pass a criminal background check as required by state and federal law.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The Finance Director operates within a professional office environment, often under the direction of the Executive Director. The role involves supervising and controlling the finance department, preparing financial statements, conducting financial analysis, and managing the preparation of all reports. The Finance Director is responsible for the general ledger, cash receivables, accounts payable, payroll, state and federal reports, internal financial reporting, and budget management. The work environment includes standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.