Head of Finance (Full-Time)

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Director of Finance

Full Time Senior Management Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Santa Barbara, CA, US

Conservation work depends on thoughtful stewardship - not only of natural resources, but of financial resources, as well. The Director of Finance plays a critical role in ensuring the organization can sustainably advance its mission, respond to new opportunities, and invest in long-term impact. This position helps translate mission and strategy into sound financial decisions that support people, programs, and the environment.

This is an onsite, full-time, exempt position reporting to the Executive Director.

Preparing and reviewing financial reports, cash flow, and budget performance

Meeting with department leaders to support planning and decision-making

Developing forecasts and long-range financial models

Managing audit preparation, compliance, and internal controls

Supporting grant budgeting, reporting and billing in compliance with government requirements

Implementing a robust contracts management reporting and billing system

Improving systems, processes, and financial tools that support efficiency and transparency

Preparing materials for Board, Finance and Audit Committee meetings

Financial Strategy & Sustainability - ensuring long-term financial health and resilience

Budgeting & Forecasting - guiding thoughtful planning and resource allocation

Compliance & Risk Management - maintaining strong internal controls and accountability

Grant & Fund Stewardship- supporting responsible management of restricted and institutional funding

Organizational Decision-Making - providing financial insights that inform strategy and operations

Systems & Process Improvement - building efficient, scalable financial practices

What Helps You Thrive Here

Communicate financial information clearly and collaboratively

10+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience

Significant experience with not-for-profit tax compliance issues and the ability to provide assurance on the accuracy and completeness of the required tax returns. These include, federal form 990 and 990-T, the California form 199, 199-T, the RRF-1, federal and state payroll tax returns, property tax returns, and sales tax returns.

Knowledge of point-of-sales computer systems and sales tax compliance

Proficiency in modern general ledger software programs that specialize in NFP accounting.

Proficiency in multiple business software programs in a PC environment and with Microsoft Office Suite, allowing you to bridge the departments that utilize other programs and provide support to their products’ integration into the PC environment.

Knowledge of financial reporting for NFP entities in accordance with GAAP.

Strong analytical skills working with quantitative data, organizing information effectively, and providing useful data.

Strong nonprofit finance and budgeting expertise

Experience with audits, grants, and restricted funding

Ability to translate financial data into clear insights and recommendations

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

CPA, MBA, or related certification

Experience in conservation, environmental, education, or nonprofit sectors

At the Garden, you’ll help advance conservation, environmental education, and community impact through thoughtful financial leadership.