Head of Finance, Payroll & Operations

Ventura Land Trust (VLT) is a local, private, non-profit land trust working to protect the land, water, wildlife, and scenic beauty of the Ventura region for current and future generations. We own almost 4,000 acres of wildlands in Ventura County and strive to study, enhance, and communicate conservation values through responsible public access, habitat protection, and community ecological literacy. The Finance and Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the financial, administrative, and operational functions of the organization. This role ensures the accuracy of financial reporting, maintains compliance with nonprofit and governmental regulations, and supports human resources and staff operations. Contribute to the development of the annual budget, including forecasting, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

Manage accounts payable and receivable, general ledger entries, bank reconciliations, and payroll processing, including preparing journal entries and maintaining accurate accounting records

Prepare timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for senior leadership and the Board of Directors.

Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and coordinate all audit-related documentation and activities, including preparing audit documentation, reconciliations, and supporting schedules.

Establish, implement, and maintain strong internal control systems and financial policies to protect organizational assets.

Ensure compliance with IRS requirements, state and federal regulations, GAAP standards, and grant-specific financial and reporting obligations through accurate accounting and financial reporting.

Support HR functions including payroll administration, benefits coordination, onboarding, and maintenance of personnel records.

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

• 5–10 years of hands-on accounting experience, preferably within a nonprofit or public-sector environment.
• Proficiency with financial accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks Online)
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data analysis)
• Strong understanding of fund accounting, GAAP, and nonprofit grant regulations.
• High attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication, ability to work independently, and skill in presenting financial information to non-financial audiences.

MBA or CPA certification.

Experience in human resources management.

Experience in nonprofit accounting.

Hourly compensation ranges from $40.00 to $50.00 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and overall fit for the position. This position may be structured either as a full-time salaried exempt position or as a part-time/fractional engagement, depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate and organizational needs. Employees regularly working a full-time schedule are classified as salaried, exempt employees and are eligible for Ventura Land Trust's benefits package, including medical insurance, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and participation in the organization's 401(k) retirement plan.

The Finance and Operations Manager position is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. org with " Finance and Operations Manager " in the subject line.