Director of Finance

Director Of FinanceThe State Education Resource Center (SERC) is seeking a qualified candidate for a full-time Director of Finance to lead and manage the organization's accounting operations, financial reporting, and fiscal compliance. This role combines hands-on accounting leadership with strategic financial oversight to ensure financial integrity, transparency, and alignment with organizational goals. The position reports directly to the Executive Director and plays a central role in supporting SERC's mission through sound financial management, effective internal controls, and collaborative fiscal planning.At SERC, our mission is grounded in a deep and unwavering commitment to equity and social justice. We believe every student deserves access to educational opportunities that honor and reflect their unique identities, abilities, and experiences. No matter a student's race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, or background, we are dedicated to providing programs and services that empower, uplift, and inspire them. Through our resources, professional development offerings, and centralized library, we work to dismantle systemic barriers and foster environments built on compassion, accountability, and transformative change.Our team members, in collaboration with the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) and partners in school districts and community organizations, support educators, service providers, and families in strengthening their capacity to meet the diverse needs of all students. If you are passionate about being part of a team that works to make education more equitable and inclusive and you value collaboration, innovation, and purpose, we would love to have you join us.General SummaryThe Director of Finance oversees the administration, planning, forecasting, and financial management of the organization. This role combines hands-on accounting oversight with strategic financial leadership to support the agency's programs and long-term sustainability. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and agency leadership, the Director manages financial modeling, forecasting, budgeting, job costing, and financial reporting while ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The Director of Finance also works to strengthen financial systems, enhance fiscal accountability, and support informed decision-making across the agency.Essential Job FunctionsThe Director of Finance is responsible for leading and managing the organization's core financial operations. The following functions outline the key responsibilities required to ensure accurate, compliant, and strategically aligned financial management across the agency. Applicants must be able to perform the following essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation:Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to support short- and long-term financial strategy.Provide financial analysis, forecasts, and recommendations to leadership and the Board of Directors.Direct and oversee all finance and accounting operations, including financial reporting, billing, and accounting procedures.Maintain a hands-on role in core accounting functions, ensuring accurate financial transactions, reconciliations, and reporting.Strengthen financial accountability and transparency through improved systems and reporting practices.Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements to leadership and the Board.Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop the annual operating budget and oversee long-term fiscal planning.Monitor agency cash flow and provide guidance on fiscal sustainability and financial planning.Ensure strong internal controls and compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements.Oversee accounting for programs, grants, and projects, ensuring expenditures align with funding requirements.Maintain relationships with external partners including banks, auditors, and financial service providers.ResponsibilitiesThe Director of Finance position encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:Financial PlanningLead organizational financial planning and analyze budget-to-actual performance.Develop financial forecasts to support program planning and organizational growth.Monitor cash flow to support operational stability.Financial OperationsOversee accounting systems, financial records, and reporting functions.Supervise the accurate and timely processing of accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and payroll tax reporting, journal entries, reconciliations, and cash management.Prepare financial reports for federal, state, and foundation grants.Ensure expenditure remains aligned with grant and program budgets.Develop and maintain fiscal policies and procedures for financial operations.Risk Management and ComplianceMonitor financial risks and maintain effective internal controls.Ensure compliance with regulatory, tax, and financial reporting requirements.Maintain records that meet audit and government reporting standards.Coordinate external audits and address recommendations.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of:Nonprofit, education, or government financial management practicesGenerally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standardsGrant and program financial managementRisk management and internal control systemsSkill in:Leading hands-on accounting operations, including financial reporting, audit preparation, and budgetingDeveloping financial policies and improving accounting proceduresAnalyzing complex financial data and presenting findings to leadershipUsing financial management systems and office technology, including MIP Fund Accounting, ADP Workforce Now, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)Ability to:Analyze financial issues and implement effective solutionsManage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and complianceMaintain strict confidentiality and ethical standardsCommunicate financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial audiencesWork collaboratively across departments and with organizational leadership while demonstrating initiative and sound judgmentSupervisory ResponsibilityThe Director of Finance supervises fiscal department personnel and provides leadership and operational oversight for core accounting functions.Work EnvironmentThe Director of Finance will operate in a professional office and virtual environment. Professional business attire will be required. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers and phones. Off-site requirements are specific to workshops, training, or school and community work.Physical DemandsThe physical demands described here represent those required to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. While performing the duties of this position, the employee must communicate effectively, remain mobile, use hands and fingers to operate equipment, manage objects, and reach with hands and arms. The role may involve standing for extended periods and occasionally lifting or carrying items. Access to reliable transportation or the ability to travel to off-site work locations is required.Position Type/Expected Hours of WorkThis is a full-time, exempt position, with regular work hours Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Occasional weekend or after-hours work may be necessary to support organizational needs.Education and ExperienceA Bachelor's degree (BA) with a concentration in Accounting or a closely related field is required. Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, with three years of supervisory experience preferred. The position requires demonstrated experience in hands-on accounting functions such as financial reporting, audit preparation, budgeting, and oversight of core accounting operations. Experience with GAAP compliance, grant accounting, and financial management systems such as MIP Fund Accounting and ADP Workforce Now is strongly preferred. Experience in nonprofit organizations, education agencies, government entities, or other grant-funded environments is highly desirable. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered.Salary Range$115,000.00 - $159,079.00 *Salary is nonnegotiable; all new hires will start at the beginning of the range. This position will remain open until filled.A thorough, updated resume, cover letter, and at least three professional references submitted with the application package are required for consideration. Apply online at reserves the right to substitute years of experience for certification or degrees. SERC may expand inquiries into materials submitted in support of an applicant's candidacy without further permission from the applicant. Disclaimer SERC reserves the right to accept equivalent years of experience in lieu of formal certifications or degrees. The organization may review or verify materials submitted in support of an applicant's candidacy without additional permission. SERC also reserves the right to modify compensation, benefits, minimum qualifications, desired skills, and job duties for this position at any time. Employment is contingent upon the successful