Head of Finance

Location: 4444 S. Evans, Chicago, IL 60653 Company Overview Over the course of our proud seventeen-year history, Bright Star Community Outreach (BSCO) has made significant contributions to the renewal of Chicago’s most vulnerable communities as a 501C3 nonprofit organization. Driven by our hope for change in this city and the families that call it home, Bright Star’s presence has been marked by effective programming, social development, and advocacy; particularly in the greater Bronzeville community of Chicago’s South Side. Led by founder and CEO, Pastor Chris Harris, Sr., who grew up in the Bronzeville neighborhood where we are currently located, our Bright Star Community Development Corporation (BSCDC) strategy includes developing impactful community development initiatives aimed at facing our largest societal challenges: violence in our communities, poor economic opportunities, inadequate mental health services, affordable housing and education. These efforts are designed to strengthen local families and communities, as well as leverage our key partnerships with organizations and businesses that share our passion for seeing renewal in Chicago. Position Overview The Head of Finance is a senior leadership position that reports directly to the Executive Director and has direct responsibility for BSCO’s and BSCDC’s budget, program finances, and operational expenses. The Head of Finance, in partnership with the leadership team, aligns resources and plans implementation to ensure that the BSCO and BSCDC delivers measurable, cost-effective results that make BSCO’s and BSCDC’s strategic vision a reality. With the Executive Director, ensure the organization develops the most efficient and effective structure, processes, and systems to increase the overall productivity and capacity of the organization. Scope of Responsibilities Organizational Finances With the CEO, Executive Director, and Finance Team help manage all aspects of BSCO’s budget and finances, including financial planning and reporting, budget preparation, and the full financial cycle Under the leadership of our CPA produce regular and timely financial reports for management and the Board of Directors that analyze budget performance, variance, and trends to ensure a continuous flow of information for financial transparency and to support decision-making Assist with preparing materials for the annual audit, ensuring accurate and timely year-end financial audits and tax compliance With Development staff, establish, monitor, and reconcile fundraising transactions and all reporting requirements Serve as staff liaison for Finance and Audit committee meetings Manage banking, investment, and vendor relationships Ensure the creation and maintenance of written documentation for accounting systems, including user manuals, license agreements, etc. Process invoices, verify accuracy, and ensure timely payment to vendors Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies Maintain organized and up-to-date records of payables. Generate reimbursable grant invoices accurately in a timely manner Monitor and follow up on outstanding payments Reconcile accounts receivable ledger to ensure accuracy Programmatic Finances Work with Department Directors to build programmatic budgets Build and manage government contract budgeting process, from pre-award, ongoing tracking, to post-award reporting Serve as primary contact for compliance audits for government grants and contracts Ensure sound fiscal operation of the program management function, including assistance with financial budgeting and monitoring of programs Perform a monthly review of the payroll register with the finance team Manage all grants received through external fundraising and assist the development team in establishing and maintaining systems for annual and planned giving. Maintain shared grant reporting calendar due dates and submissions, including all required financial deliverables as stated per grant awards and contracts. Remain up to date on best practices in nonprofit finance, business systems and internal control measures, and state and federal law regarding nonprofit operations. Preferred Background and Qualifications B.A./B.S. with 5+ years of financial management experience in nonprofits, MPA or MBA preferred, CPA required Experience in overseeing monthly invoicing and expense monitoring for state and federal grant awards Expertise in accounting for restricted revenues (local, state, federal funding; foundation grants, individual donors) High standards for accountability, controls, timeliness, reporting, and accuracy Comfortable with communicating financial information to non-financially oriented professionals. Proficiency with computer technology and software, i.e. Blackbaud, Salesforce,QuickBooks Skills and Attributes Communication and Interpersonal Skills : Clear and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders Trustworthy : Experience with managing sensitive situations and information utilizing discretion, professionalism, and excellent judgment Detail-Oriented and Compliance-Minded : Ensuring that the work you produce is delivered with excellence from a legal and ethical perspective. Accuracy in processing financial data and identifying discrepancies Problem-Solving : Ability to identify and resolve issues related to AP/AR Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high level of professionalism and client-centered service. The successful candidate must be able to maintain focus, exercise sound judgment, and effectively prioritize responsibilities while managing competing demands. Medical, dental, and vision insurance Health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Life and disability insurance Paid time off (PTO) Paid holidays Access to industry conferences or workshops Company-sponsored social events or retreats Volunteer days or community engagement opportunities #J-18808-Ljbffr