Director of Finance

Director of Finance

Conservation work depends on thoughtful stewardship - not only of natural resources, but of financial resources, as well. The Director of Finance plays a critical role in ensuring the organization can sustainably advance its mission, respond to new opportunities, and invest in long-term impact. This position helps translate mission and strategy into sound financial decisions that support people, programs, and the environment.

The Director of Finance is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, working closely with the Executive Director to ensure the organization's financial health, strategic alignment, and long-term sustainability. This position also provides leadership and oversight to the Finance Department, directly managing two full-time team members: a Staff Accountant and an Accounting Coordinator.

This is an onsite, full-time, exempt position reporting to the Executive Director.

No two days are the same, but this role often includes:

• Preparing and reviewing financial reports, cash flow, and budget performance
• Meeting with department leaders to support planning and decision-making
• Developing forecasts and long-range financial models
• Managing audit preparation, compliance, and internal controls
• Supporting grant budgeting, reporting and billing in compliance with government requirements
• Partnering with leadership on organizational strategy and priorities
• Implementing a robust contracts management reporting and billing system
• Improving systems, processes, and financial tools that support efficiency and transparency
• Preparing materials for Board, Finance and Audit Committee meetings

You will play a key role in shaping and strengthening the organization through:

• Financial Strategy & Sustainability - ensuring long-term financial health and resilience
• Budgeting & Forecasting - guiding thoughtful planning and resource allocation
• Compliance & Risk Management - maintaining strong internal controls and accountability
• Grant & Fund Stewardship- supporting responsible management of restricted and institutional funding
• Organizational Decision-Making - providing financial insights that inform strategy and operations
• Systems & Process Improvement - building efficient, scalable financial practices
• Leadership & Collaboration - partnering across teams to strengthen organizational effectiveness

You'll be successful in this role if you:

• Enjoy balancing strategic thinking with hands-on problem solving
• Communicate financial information clearly and collaboratively
• Build strong relationships across teams and leadership levels
• Are adaptable, curious, and comfortable navigating change
• Value transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Can manage competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail
• Are motivated by mission-driven work and long-term impact

Required Experience & Skills:

• 10+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience
• 5+ years of direct supervisory experience
• Significant experience with not-for-profit tax compliance issues and the ability to provide assurance on the accuracy and completeness of the required tax returns. These include, federal form 990 and 990-T, the California form 199, 199-T, the RRF-1, federal and state payroll tax returns, property tax returns, and sales tax returns.
• Knowledge of federal contracts, uniform guidance requirements, cost principles and and reporting.
• Knowledge of point-of-sales computer systems and sales tax compliance
• Proficiency in modern general ledger software programs that specialize in NFP accounting.
• Proficiency in multiple business software programs in a PC environment and with Microsoft Office Suite, allowing you to bridge the departments that utilize other programs and provide support to their products' integration into the PC environment.
• Knowledge of financial reporting for NFP entities in accordance with GAAP.
• Strong analytical skills working with quantitative data, organizing information effectively, and providing useful data.
• Strong nonprofit finance and budgeting expertise
• Experience with audits, grants, and restricted funding
• Ability to translate financial data into clear insights and recommendations
• Collaborative leadership style and strong communication skills
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or related field

Nice to Have:

• CPA, MBA, or related certification
• Experience in conservation, environmental, education, or nonprofit sectors

At the Garden, you'll help advance conservation, environmental education, and community impact through thoughtful financial leadership. We offer competitive compensation, strong benefits, and a collaborative mission-driven culture.