The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) reports to the President and is a key member of the executive leadership team, focused on developing and executing OCCF’s organizational strategy and ambitious growth goals. The CFO works internally and externally to ensure the highest level of stewardship of the Foundation’s assets. The CFO leads OCCF's investment activities, supported by a seasoned Investment Committee and independent investment advisors. Additionally, the CFO leads and manages the Finance Department, and directly supervises the Controller and department staff.
Specifically, the Chief Financial Officer will: Executive Leadership
• Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO and the President to determine and implement organizational and growth strategy
• Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team and liaison for Board Investment, Finance, and Audit Committees
• Lead data analysis and information sharing throughout the organization to aid in decision-making and setting strategic direction, including supporting long-range planning and business modeling with financial and economic insights
• Remain current and knowledgeable about legal, accounting, tax, and public policy matters related to foundations and philanthropy
• Build, mentor, and lead the finance and accounting team to cultivate a dynamic culture and ensure professional growth
• Understand gift and fund options available for donors and assist – in partnership with development, donor services, executives, and other departmental staff – in evaluating proposed gifts for adherence to OCCF's policies
• Work collaboratively with the rest of the executive leadership team to incorporate OCCF's mission and values into the organization’s vision and strategies
• Work closely with the Board of Governors to provide leadership, information, and support to enhance the governance of OCCF
• Ensure that OCCF's donors continue to receive excellent, best-in-class customer service
• Provide independent perspective on business decisions to ensure that they are financially grounded and support OCCF's strategy and execution
• Partner with the CEO and the President on all efforts to ensure that OCCF's diversity, equity and inclusion plan is infused in all aspects of the organization Investment Management
• Ensure effective administration of OCCF’s investment program, working with OCCF's investment managers to implement strategies adopted by the Board and Investment Committee, including asset allocation and other strategic decisions
• Serve as liaison for the Foundation’s Investment Committee • Work with OCCF's investment managers to ensure performance and compliance with OCCF guidelines and to provide appropriate reporting to the Investment Committee and Board
• Work with investment consultants for the individually managed accounts to ensure compliance with OCCF guidelines
• Assist in the establishment of new individually managed accounts, including opening the account, reviewing and approving the Investment Policy Statement and building a relationship with the donor advisor
• Consult with legal counsel as appropriate on matters related to OCCF’s investment program
• Ensure that all assets are invested consistently with the terms of individual fund agreements and donor intentions
• Oversee investments and governance of OCCF’s two supporting organizations
• Communicate effectively about the high stewardship standards and performance of OCCF's investment program to donors, nonprofit endowment partners, and other stakeholders
• Develop and extend networks in relevant professional fields to identify opportunities and stay apprised of relevant trends, participating in leading professional associations relevant to the community foundation field
• Stay apprised of new developments and opportunities related to investments for foundations, including traditional and innovative strategies Finance and Accounting
• Serve as liaison for the Foundation’s Finance and Audit Committees
• Lead a talented finance and accounting staff, ensuring a collaborative and collegial environment
• Lead development of policies and practices for OCCF’s finance and accounting teams
• Review, update, and/or develop internal control systems for OCCF
• Manage endowment funds, under the direction of the Finance Committee, and within the risk tolerance expressed by the Board
• Oversee preparation of financial reports and tax returns
• Oversee the development of the annual operating budget and long-term forecasts
• Oversee the annual audit, meeting periodically with the outside auditors
• Lead technological streamlining of the finance and accounting function
• Maintain excellent working relationships with external partners including auditors, bankers, investment advisors, attorneys, and other professional advisors
• Ensure that OCCF complies with all legal, ethical, and accounting standards
• Assign and oversee the portfolio of work of direct reports • Ensure effective execution of OCCF’s financial operations management
Profile of the Successful Candidate The Foundation seeks an innovative, tech-savvy leader with strong financial and strategic acumen; familiarity with the foundation environment; a passion for the power of philanthropy and the values of OCCF; a commitment to inclusivity and equity; an innovative mindset and the highest level of integrity; a collegial work style; and, the dedication to work hard toward the Foundation’s mission.
The CFO will share OCCF’s deep commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, as it seeks to build an increasingly diverse workforce for its work in partnership with the diverse communities in Orange County.
Within this framework, OCCF seeks a Chief Financial Officer with the following attributes:
• Minimum of ten years with senior-level management experience within finance and/or accounting departments; non-profit experience preferred
• An undergraduate degree in business, accounting, or a related field, or equivalent education and experience
• Demonstrated, extensive knowledge of financial strategy, trends and reports
• Demonstrated knowledge of accounting processes and systems
• Demonstrated mastery of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofit organizations and a basic understanding of tax and other state and federal laws pertinent to nonprofit organizations as well as the principles of fund accounting
• Experience with integrated grants and accounting systems; excellent working knowledge of office and enterprise systems technologies
• Demonstrated knowledge of technology and experience upgrading systems and streamlining processes
• Sharp investment acumen, evidenced by experience in working either in foundations, family offices, or wealth management
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external contacts
• Ability to lead, develop and mentor staff • Demonstrated interest in philanthropy and a commitment to service
• A deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with the board, executive team, broader staff, and external contacts
• Strong work ethic and dedication to excellent customer service
• Collaborative, humble, and team-oriented work style
• Strong manager and relationship builder
• Unimpeachable character
The successful candidate may also have:
• Five years’ experience in the investment or retirement fund/endowment sector, including work with investment consultants
• A Master’s degree in business, accounting, or related field or equivalent education and experience
• Familiarity with non-profit finance and governance
• A CPA license Start
Timeframe We seek to have someone in place in Fall/Winter 2024.
Compensation This position offers a competitive salary range of $235,000 - $270,000 and includes a comprehensive benefits package. We actively welcome all candidates from a wide range of backgrounds who have the skills to fulfill this role – regardless of compensation history.
