Chief Financial Officer

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is the senior executive leader responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, coordination, and evaluation of CRIHB’s financial function. The CFO oversees accounting, budgeting and forecasting, financial reporting, cash management, fiscal administration of grants and contracts, audits, internal controls, financial compliance, and long-term financial planning. The CFO partners with executive leadership to align financial strategy and resource stewardship with CRIHB’s purpose, operational goals, and Tribal values.

As a core member of the Executive Leadership Team, the CFO serves as a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operations Officer, and Chief Human Resources Officer on financial planning, organizational sustainability, resource allocation, and financial risk. Under the direction of the CEO, the CFO serves as the primary staff liaison to the Finance Committee and provides financial information, analysis, and recommendations to the Board of Directors. The CFO also coordinates financial training and technical assistance for member Tribal health programs and Tribal financial leaders.

Position Summary

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is the senior executive leader responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, coordination, and evaluation of CRIHB’s financial function. The CFO oversees accounting, budgeting and forecasting, financial reporting, cash management, fiscal administration of grants and contracts, audits, internal controls, financial compliance, and long‑term financial planning. The CFO partners with executive leadership to align financial strategy and resource stewardship with CRIHB’s purpose, operational goals, and Tribal values.

As a core member of the Executive Leadership Team, the CFO serves as a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operations Officer, and Chief Human Resources Officer on financial planning, organizational sustainability, resource allocation, and financial risk. Under the direction of the CEO, the CFO serves as the primary staff liaison to the Finance Committee and provides financial information, analysis, and recommendations to the Board of Directors. The CFO also coordinates financial training and technical assistance for member Tribal health programs and Tribal financial leaders.

Qualifications

CRIHB recognizes that an equivalent combination of education, training, and progressively responsible leadership experience may be considered. A high school diploma or equivalent is required for all applicants. At the executive level, an equivalent combination of education and experience encompasses all educational pathways (Bachelor’s, Associate’s, or no degree) when paired with significant executive leadership experience demonstrating comparable competencies and cross‑enterprise operational impact.

Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field; and

Twelve (12) years of equivalent executive or senior‑level leadership experience, including:

• Cross-agency or enterprise impact.
• At least five (5) years in a supervisory or management role at the mid‑level to executive level.
• Fiscal and operational accountability.
• Progressively responsible accounting, finance, or fiscal administration experience, including significant leadership accountability for financial reporting, budgeting, audits, internal controls, and complex funding sources.

Applicants who do not possess a bachelor’s degree (but meet the high school minimum requirement) must have at least eighteen (18) years of experience demonstrating comparable scope and responsibility. This must include at least five (5) years of executive or cross‑agency oversight.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.

An active CPA license is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Financial and Technical Expertise

Expert knowledge of nonprofit and fund accounting principles and grant financial management.

Advanced knowledge of the Indian Self‑Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), Public Law 93‑638 contracting, Tribal self‑governance funding, and applicable fiscal compliance requirements is required.

Expert knowledge of internal‑control design, implementation, monitoring, and remediation.

Demonstrated ability to identify, evaluate, communicate, and mitigate financial risks.

Strong working knowledge of federal grant and contract requirements, including OMB Uniform Guidance and applicable travel and procurement standards.

Advanced proficiency with financial management and reporting systems and Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with Blackbaud, Paycom, Sage, SAP Concur, comparable financial systems, and systems conversions is preferred.

Demonstrated experience directing complex accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, and financial reporting.

Demonstrated ability to develop, monitor, and report on complex organizational budgets, audits, and multi‑source funding streams.

Deep understanding of GAAP, financial controls, and audit readiness in nonprofit, Tribal, healthcare, or public sector environments.

Leadership and Strategic Management

• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional financial teams, establish fiscal accountability systems, and implement strategic financial policies aligned with organizational goals.

Strong ethical foundation, sound financial judgment, and the ability to navigate complex nonprofit regulatory environments.

Demonstrated experience influencing executive decision‑making and contributing to organizational strategy through data‑driven financial insights.

Demonstrated ability to evaluate the financial feasibility, sustainability, risk, and organizational implications of funding opportunities and growth initiatives.

Demonstrated executive presence and the ability to build trust, collaboration, service accountability, and financial discipline across departments.

Board of Directors and Executive Support

• Demonstrated ability to prepare and deliver clear, decision‑oriented financial presentations to executive leaders, committees, governing boards, and Tribal councils.

Demonstrated ability to advise executive leadership regarding the financial implications of strategic initiatives, resource allocations, and investments.

4. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Proven ability to communicate effectively across diverse communities and stakeholder groups, including Tribal governments, funders, executive boards, and program leaders.

Advanced verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

5. General Requirements

Experience with Tribal health systems, nonprofit organizations, healthcare organizations, or the public sector is preferred.

Demonstrated ability to develop, mentor, and hold a Finance team accountable through coaching, training, and performance oversight.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

Ability to work independently with broad executive responsibility while maintaining accuracy, transparency, sound judgment, and accountability.

Commitment to confidentiality, equity, and American Indian self‑determination.

Cultural Competency

This position requires an awareness and a profound respect for American Indian/Alaska Native traditions, customs, and socioeconomic contexts. It also requires the ability to work effectively with Tribal organizations, demonstrating tact, courtesy, discretion, resourcefulness, and sound judgment when handling sensitive matters.

Indian Preference

Preference in hiring is extended to qualified American Indians or Alaska Native applicants in accordance with CRIHB’s Indian Preference policy, as provided under Title 25 U.S.C. § 5307(b). This policy ensures that qualified Native applicants receive priority consideration in the hiring process. However, the final selection is based on a comprehensive evaluation of all candidates’ qualifications, experience, and alignment with the specific needs of the position. Applicants claiming Indian Preference must submit verifiable documentation of their status, such as certification from their Tribe of affiliation or other acceptable proof of Indian heritage as required by CRIHB.

Notice: Sovereign Immunity

Please take notice that sovereign immunity extends to CRIHB as an inter‑tribal organization and arm of its consortium tribes and Tribal organizations. CRIHB is not governed by California’s labor laws, including the state’s wage and hour laws or its Family Medical Leave, and Pregnancy Leave laws and regulations. CRIHB’s utilization of certain state family medical and pregnancy leave benefits, or any other benefit, is discretionary and shall not be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity of CRIHB. CRIHB may provide information and documents that reference state laws or regulations from time to time, and in the event of inconsistency or conflict, CRIHB’s policy shall govern. CRIHB disclaims jurisdiction of any state enforcement. Nothing herein or otherwise shall be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity of CRIHB.

Duties & Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Advises the CEO and Executive Leadership Team regarding financial strategy and provides financial information, analysis, and recommendations to the Finance Committee and Board of Directors.

Ensures the effective, accurate, and compliant management of CRIHB’s financial affairs and safeguards the organization’s financial resources.

Collaborates with executive leadership to develop and maintain financial continuity, emergency response, and organizational resilience plans.

Evaluates revenue opportunities, reimbursement methodologies, indirect cost structures, and strategic funding opportunities.

Oversees organizational accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, financial reporting, and cash management, as well as payroll accounting, reconciliation, funding, and financial controls in coordination with Human Resources.

Oversees the fiscal administration and financial compliance of grants, contracts, funding agreements, and subcontracts, including budgeting, expenditure monitoring, financial reporting, billing, drawdowns, and cost allocation.

Ensures all funds are expended in accordance with federal, state, Tribal, grant, contract, and organizational requirements.

Oversees financial monitoring, compliance activities, and fiscal accountability for subcontractors, participating programs, and funding sources.

Develops and maintains financial management systems that provide accurate, timely, and meaningful financial information to leadership and program staff.

Serves as the primary liaison on fiscal matters with funding agencies, auditors, banking institutions, and other financial partners.

Directs the development, implementation, monitoring, and forecasting of organizational and program budgets.

Oversees preparation and submission of financial reports, grant financial statements, cost reports, and other required fiscal documentation.

Provides leadership, supervision, and performance management for Finance Department staff and promotes continuous professional development.

Prepares and presents financial reports, dashboards, forecasts, and analyses to the CEO, Finance Committee, and Board of Directors.

Oversees fiscal review and budget development for funding proposals, grants, contracts, and organizational initiatives.

Establishes, maintains, and periodically updates fiscal policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure sound financial governance.

Directs the annual independent audit process and ensures the timely implementation of audit recommendations.

Negotiates and manages indirect cost rates and cost allocation methodologies with applicable federal agencies.

Coordinates and oversees organizational insurance coverage and conducts periodic financial risk management reviews to safeguard organizational assets.

Collaborates with executive and department leadership to strengthen financial accountability, resource stewardship, and informed organizational decision‑making.

Coordinates and provides financial training and technical assistance to member Tribal health programs and Tribal financial leaders.

Monitors the fiscal performance, financial compliance, and funding status of specially funded programs, grants, contracts, and strategic initiatives.

Regular and predictable attendance.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

Maintains a valid, unrestricted driver’s license and ability to be insurable under CRIHB’s automobile insurance.

Position requires occasional overnight travel within CRIHB’s service area. Requires the ability to drive up to seven (7) hours a day