Job Title: Senior Director of Finance Operations
Department: Finance
Location: Oakland, CA or Washington, DC preferred, or remote.
This position requires an ability to travel up to two weeks per year.
Reports To: Chief Financial Officer
Supervises: Director of Payroll & Accounts Payable, Managing Assistant Controller, (2 to 4 FTE)
Context: At the Sierra Club, we believe in the power of interdependence. Together, we remain committed to the fight for a healthy climate built on a foundation of environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice – a future where all people benefit from a healthy, thriving planet and a direct connection to nature. As the climate crisis and deeply entrenched systemic racism all fuel injustice, we will continue to fight for a bold, transformational agenda that recognizes the interconnectedness between our planet, our humanity, and our future. By recognizing that our destinies are tied, we continue to name that all things are fundamentally connected, and the overlap between ecology, race, gender, and representative government will move to either advance our collective humanity or to oppress it. Sierra Club has close to 800 staff across the country and a network of 64 local chapters that are led and fueled by thousands of volunteers. We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with three labor unions representing more than half of our employees.
Scope: The Senior Director of Finance Operations is a key supporting role for the CFO in supporting all financial matters and ensuring the overall financial health of Sierra Club. Responsible for managing the daily accounting operations of Sierra Club, and the preparation and maintenance of the General Ledger, in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles(GAAP). Oversees accounting operations of Sierra Club Political Committee (SCPC), Sierra Club Independent Action (SCIA) and Voter Education funds which are managed by the Managing Assistant Controller. Responsible for creating, adapting, documenting and socializing policies and procedures to ensure proper internal controls for all entities. Supervises the management of central accounting functions for the Sierra Club, including payables, receivables, cash receiving, payroll, tax reporting, and preparation of financial reports and statements.
Responsible for analyzing financial data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and collaborating with the procurement team and supplier relationships to negotiate pricing and terms to align with the organization’s overall financial goals. Responsible for data integrity of the Club’s financial system, monthly closings and preparation of General Ledger reports. Responsible for supervising the preparation and evaluation of client prepared audit schedules and overseeing the annual audit process. In collaboration with the CFO, provides updates and reports to Sierra Club leadership, board members and the Finance Committee. Provides information, reports and assistance to Sierra Club staff, chapters, and volunteers in a variety of accounting matters. Exchanges relevant information with external auditors, government agencies, banks, authors and other vendors. This role will provide a key interface between finance and other departments across the organization.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE THE FOLLOWING SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance/Accounting or a related field.
• 10-12 years experience in accounting and financial analysis, with 6-8 years in a supervisory capacity.
• Thorough understanding of nonprofit accounting and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Communication and Relationship Building: Effective communication skills are essential for the Senior Director of Finance Operations to present financial information clearly and concisely to non-financial stakeholders. They should also be able to build strong relationships with external partners, auditors, and donors.
• Technology Proficiency: familiar with financial management software, reporting tools, and data analysis systems. They should be able to leverage technology to streamline financial processes, enhance reporting accuracy, and improve efficiency.
• Compliance and Risk Management: With substantial funds at stake, the Senior Director of Finance Operations should thoroughly understand compliance requirements for non-profit organizations, including IRS regulations and legal obligations. They should also be adept at risk assessment and mitigation strategies to safeguard the organization’s financial health.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical skills are crucial for the Senior Director of Finance Operations to assess financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions. They should also have exceptional problem-solving abilities to address complex financial issues and develop effective solutions.
• Strategic Thinking: Think strategically and provide financial guidance aligned with the organization’s mission and strategic goals. This includes forecasting financial needs, identifying growth opportunities, and mitigating financial risks.
• Ethical Conduct: Given the fiduciary responsibilities of managing substantial funds, the Senior Director of Finance Operations must uphold the highest ethical standards and demonstrate integrity in financial decision-making and reporting.
• Adaptability and Change Management: A strong Senior Director of Finance Operations should be adaptable to changing financial environments, including shifts in funding, regulatory changes, and emerging financial trends. They should be capable of effectively managing change within the finance department and guiding the organization through transitions.
• Continuous Learning: The Senior Director of Finance Operations should commit to ongoing professional development and stay up to date with evolving financial regulations, best practices, and industry trends. This includes pursuing relevant certifications and participating in professional networks or associations.
• Leading on Equity. You model effective equity analysis and practice and have a track record of operationalizing equity, and have embedded justice and equity throughout team/department policies, structures, culture, and programs.
• Committed to evolution.You are committed to continuously deepening and evolving your own understanding of systems of oppression through study, openness, and humility. And you easily recognize your own relationship to privilege and power, examining and shifting your behaviors as appropriate.
• Uplifting and additive. You see mistakes as opportunities for growth; problems as catalysts for solutions, and inspire others along the journey. You carry a constructive approach, can-do attitude, a sense of humor, and authentic kindness wherever you go.

THE STRONGEST CANDIDATES WILL ALSO DEMONSTRATE THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

• Certified Public Accountant and/or MBA designation preferred
• Demonstrated experience working at a non-profit with a mix of c(3) & c(4) funding sources.
• Extensive experience with and knowledge of Netsuite and Adaptive Planning

Please refer the Job description for details