Assistant Director of Finance

JOB DESCRIPTION

Department: Finance

Position Title: Assistant Director of Finance FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports to: Director of Finance

Position Summary

The Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) seeks an experienced and mission-driven Assistant Director of Finance to support the financial leadership of our organization. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Assistant Director will help manage day-to-day financial operations, supervise business office staff, strengthen financial systems, support budgeting and forecasting, and ensure compliance with financial policies and regulatory requirements. This role is key to advancing CES's fiscal sustainability and mission impact.

• Support the Director of Finance in overseeing the organization's accounting, budgeting, cash management, and financial reporting functions.

• Supervise and provide day-to-day leadership to business office staff, including but not limited to accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general accounting personnel.

• Conduct regular check-ins and performance evaluations for supervised staff; support staff professional development and promote a collaborative, high-performing team culture.

• Review and monitor monthly financial statements; assist in variance analysis and financial narrative reporting.

• Manage the month-end and year-end close processes in coordination with the Director of Finance and external auditors.

• Oversee reconciliations of balance sheet accounts and bank accounts.

• Assist in developing the annual organizational budget, department budgets, and grant budgets in collaboration with the Director of Finance, program directors, and other stakeholders.

• Support the implementation of multi-year financial forecasting tools.

• Monitor actual performance against budgets and forecasts; recommend corrective actions where needed.

• Ensure internal financial controls are documented, followed, and continuously improved.

• Support preparation for annual financial audits, Uniform Guidance single audits, and other compliance-related audits or reviews.

• Maintain awareness of relevant federal, state, and local regulations impacting non-profit financial management and ensure organizational compliance.

• Contribute to the evaluation and enhancement of financial systems, processes, and tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.

• Assist with system upgrades, new system implementation, and staff training as needed.

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and customer service within the finance department and across the business office.

• Partner with program leaders to build financial literacy and strengthen budget management skills across the organization.

• Provide financial reports and analysis to support programmatic and organizational decision-making.

• Participate in organization-wide planning and special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive financial experience, preferably in a non-profit organization.

• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience managing finance/business office staff.

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and non-profit accounting principles.

• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.

• Proficiency with accounting software and advanced Excel skills.

• Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and problem-solving ability.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to lead and support a diverse team.

• Commitment to CES's mission and values, including diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Preferred:

• CPA or MBA preferred.

• Experience managing federal, state, and private grant financial compliance.

• Familiarity with Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200).

This position operates in a professional office environment with flexibility for potential hybrid work. Some evening or weekend work may occasionally be required to meet deadlines or attend meetings.

• Salary Range: 85,000.00 To 100,000.00 (USD) Annually

• CES offers a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Terms of Employment

• Schedule: Full-time, 12-month position (40 hours per week).

• Location: 97 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA.

• Benefits: Competitive benefits package per CES Personnel Policies.