Executive Director, Finance

Job Description

Job Description

LifeWays is a community mental health services program that provides a comprehensive set of services used to increase access to care, support people in crisis, and provide treatment for those with the most serious and complex behavioral health needs. As a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), LifeWays services anyone, regardless of their residence or insurance coverage.

The Executive Director of Finance Position

Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the Executive Director of Finance provides strategic and operational leadership for all financial functions across the organization. This role oversees Business Services and is responsible for ensuring financial integrity, regulatory compliance, and the effective stewardship of organizational resources.

The Executive Director of Finance plays a critical leadership role in assessing financial performance, identifying opportunities for improvement, and supporting organizational decision-making to advance the mission of LifeWays.

Key Responsibilities of the Executive Director of Finance Position 

Financial Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the planning, development, and evaluation of all financial services and systems.
• Assess financial strengths and risks; recommend strategies to improve performance and sustainability.
• Participate in agency-wide strategic planning and establish departmental goals, objectives, and KPIs.
• Provide high-level financial guidance and recommendations to the CEO and Board of Directors.

Financial Operations & Oversight

• Direct all financial functions including general accounting, budgeting, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, claims, reimbursements, and bookkeeping.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Oversee the preparation and monitoring of agency-wide budgets in collaboration with department leaders.
• Manage fixed assets, daily transaction processing, month-end close, and audit preparation (financial and compliance).

Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare and submit required reports to MDHHS, including:
• Financial Status Reports (FSRs)
• Contract Reconciliation and Cash Settlement (CRCS)
• Internal Service Funds (ISFs)
• Develop and present monthly financial reports to the Board of Directors and Program & Finance Committee.
• Ensure adherence to Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) standards.
• Maintain up-to-date financial policies and procedures.

Leadership & Team Management

• Provide leadership, direction, and oversight to the Finance Department.
• Supervise staff, including hiring, onboarding, performance evaluations, coaching, and discipline.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and a “customer-first” mindset.
• Monitor staff performance and operational metrics to drive continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with MDHHS, community partners, and other stakeholders.
• Represent the organization in professional meetings and stay current on industry trends and regulatory changes.
• Identify and address barriers to effective financial operations and partnerships.

Desired Experience, Skills, and Abilities for the Executive Director of Finance

• Masters degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related required
• CPA Certification preferred
• Executive-level finance leadership experience, preferably within governmental, public sector, behavioral health, or other complex funding environments
• Strong knowledge of governmental accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, audit preparation, regulatory compliance, and public funding structures preferred

LifeWays is an Equal Opportunity Employer!