Volunteer Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Job Description

Company Description Pathways College is dedicated to making college education accessible and affordable for learners from all backgrounds. The institution is founded on the belief that earning a degree should not result in long-term debt. Pathways College eliminates extra fees and ensures that textbooks are always provided at no cost to students. The college focuses on creating a supportive academic environment that prioritizes student success and financial well-being.\n
Role Description The Volunteer Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a full-time, on-site role based in Pasadena, CA. This role oversees the college’s financial strategy, budgeting, and long-term financial planning to support its mission of debt-free education. Day-to-day responsibilities include managing financial operations, reviewing and approving financial reports and statements, monitoring cash flow, and ensuring compliance with applicable financial regulations and policies. The CFO collaborates with senior leadership and the board to develop sustainable funding models, supports grant and fundraising initiatives, and provides clear financial insights for decision-making. The role also involves establishing internal controls, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing best practices in nonprofit and educational finance.\n
Qualifications
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• Strong finance and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable recommendations.
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• Experience in financial planning and budgeting, including developing long-term financial strategies and forecasts.
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• Proficiency in preparing and analyzing financial statements and overseeing day-to-day financial operations.
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• Expertise in financial reporting, including compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
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• Prior leadership experience in finance roles, preferably within higher education or nonprofit organizations.
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• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CPA, CFA) is a plus.
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• Demonstrated integrity, accountability, and commitment to the mission of accessible, debt-free education.
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• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and communicate financial information clearly to non-financial audiences.
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