GHJ Search and Staffing serves as the recruitment division of GHJ, a prominent national accounting and advisory firm. Our team provides qualified Accounting and Finance professionals on a temporary and permanent basis across a broad range of industries. GHJ’s relationship with our Global Advisory and Accounting Network provides the resources needed to better understand client’s needs, attract a higher caliber of candidates and assess candidate potential.
Position Summary
This senior leadership position provides oversight and direction to ensure financial integrity, safeguard organizational assets, and promote accountability across the organization.
The Chief Financial Officer reports to the Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for all aspects of financial management, accounting, payroll, purchasing, risk management, benefits administration, regulatory compliance reporting, and tax reporting. The role requires thorough knowledge of accounting principles, internal policies and procedures, and applicable governmental and regulatory reporting requirements.
The incumbent also oversees and administers all organizational technology functions, including hardware deployment and the management of enterprise software and telecommunications systems. Performance of the duties requires strong executive leadership skills, sound judgment, and effective decision-making ability. Work is performed under the general supervision of the CEO and is evaluated through independent external audits.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
- Oversees all aspects of organizational accounting, financial management, and financial reporting activities, including planning, budgeting, forecasting, and external reporting.
- Supervises the Controller and other finance department staff.
- Directs the preparation of financial reports and statements for internal leadership, governing bodies, and external oversight entities.
- Prepares and oversees budgets for central administrative operations and non-restricted funds; coordinates and monitors budgets across operating units or business segments.
- Performs calculations and completes documentation and electronic submissions required for annual funding, reimbursement, or incentive programs in accordance with applicable regulations.
- Establishes and maintains internal control systems to protect assets and ensure accuracy and reliability of financial reporting.
- Oversees all procurement and purchasing activities.
- Manages year-end closing processes and ensures timely submission of required financial data to external oversight or regulatory bodies.
- Produces official financial statements, including accompanying notes, for individual programs or units as well as consolidated financial statements.
- Oversees fixed asset accounting and capitalization for organizational property and equipment.
- Assists with debt compliance, covenant monitoring, or other financing-related requirements, as directed.
- Serves as the organization’s risk management administrator by identifying potential loss exposures, monitoring controls, recommending mitigation strategies, and conducting follow-up.
- Routinely evaluates employee benefit programs against available alternatives.
- Administers all personnel benefit programs, including health, dental, life, disability, and retirement plans.
- Maintains contract, investment, insurance, and property records; provides guidance related to major repairs or capital improvements.
- Reviews and audits the financial provisions of contracts, leases, and agreements.
- Maintains current knowledge of accounting standards and authoritative guidance applicable to the organization.
- Represents the organization in meetings with regulatory agencies, external partners, consultants, stakeholders, and the general public.
- Maintains ongoing communication with relevant external oversight or regulatory officials.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Thorough knowledge of organizational policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Strong knowledge of modern office practices, public or organizational finance, and contract administration.
- Extensive knowledge of professional accounting principles and practices.
- Knowledge of organizational accounting systems and internal controls.
- Understanding of programmatic operations, budgeting needs, and organizational structure.
- Ability to prepare, analyze, and evaluate complex financial and technical reports.
- Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
- Ability to maintain accurate financial records in compliance with applicable requirements.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to analyze data and prepare clear, accurate, and concise reports.
- Ability to interact professionally and tactfully with diverse stakeholders.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across all levels of the organization and with external partners.
Minimum Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a closely related field
- At least 5 years of prior CFO experience