CCE of Albany County Lead Finance Manager - Voorheesville, NY

The Lead Finance Manager provides regional financial leadership and support to eight Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Associations in the Capital Region through hands‑on accounting support, financial and accounting guidance training, and payroll functions. This role strengthens budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, internal controls, compliance, grant management, and audit and year‑end processes. The position also provides interim finance support during vacancies and other staffing transitions, and offers direct financial management services for one assigned CCE Association. Success in this role requires clear, approachable communication with executive directors, staff, and board members, many of whom have limited financial and accounting expertise, and a "no job too big or too small" mindset. Position Responsibilities & Essential Functions Collaborate with Cornell Cooperative Extension Administration and finance leads to develop, implement, and communicate statewide financial policies, procedures, and best practices, while supporting the effective utilization of financial and accounting software applications. Work closely with executive directors and finance staff by providing education, guidance and support on all finance and accounting functions (budgeting, forecasting, reporting, internal controls, grants, compliance, efficiencies, and audit/year‑end processes). Help ensure compliance with regulations and CCE requirements (e.g., GAAP regulations and CCE accounting procedures); monitor trends, identify issues, and communicate them to executive directors and local finance staff to resolve them. Provide regional leadership in the support of finance systems; help ensure accuracy and compliance with financial systems. Provide direct financial management for one CCE Association: serve as an advisor to the executive director, present financial statements at board and committee meetings, and plan, manage, and oversee budgets, accounting functions, and grant and contract financials. Provide training (one‑on‑one and in group settings) on finance topics and financial systems. Perform regional payroll entries and payroll costing allocations to ensure accurate processing. Directly perform accounting functions for one CCE Association, including accounts payable/receivable, staff reimbursements, fixed assets, reconciling bank statements, journal entries, cost allocations, and preparing accurate, timely reports and financial statements (monthly closing, board reports, grant and contract reports). Attend regional and statewide calls, meetings, trainings, and conferences. Perform other administrative and accounting functions as assigned and complete required data, reports, records, and documentation on time. Serve as a regional finance staff floater to maintain operations during vacancies and other staffing transitions. Collaborate on a professional development plan and perform additional duties in support of the organization. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting or related field. An associate’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field plus two years of related experience may substitute for a Bachelor’s degree. A minimum of 5 years’ experience relevant to the role of the position. Strong knowledge of accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and related skills (budgets, audits, etc.). Proficient in financial software (e.g., ERP systems – Acumatica, QuickBooks, Excel, etc.) and MS Office Suite. Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to train others, present financial information to executive directors and board members, and work effectively in decentralized, sometimes ambiguous environments while upholding required standards and consistency. Ability to meet regular travel requirements associated with this position. A valid NYS driver's license and an acceptable driving record for agency insurance coverage are required. Ability to work occasional evenings and/or weekends. Preferred Qualifications Financial management experience in a government, non‑profit, or public sector setting. Experience with accrual basis of accounting. Experience with managing and preparing for audits. Experience managing budgets with diverse income streams. Experience with Acumatica. Benefits and Compensation Annual salary: $85,000. Paid time off: 21 vacation days, 14 holidays, 3 personal days, and 12 sick days per year. Mileage for work‑related travel is reimbursed. Health insurance. Dental insurance. NYS Retirement (NYSERS). Long‑Term Disability Insurance. Total Care Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Voluntary benefits: tax‑deferred annuity plan, flexible spending accounts, term life insurance, personal accidental insurance, legal plan insurance, auto and homeowner’s insurance, pet insurance, and New York’s College Savings Program. Position Details Full‑time, exempt position. Onsite location. Remote work is not available. Equal Opportunity Employment Equal Opportunity Employment Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for providing equal program and employment opportunities in accordance with applicable laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cornell University