Director of Finance
The Cradle, Evanston, IL, United States
Description
The Cradle, a leading nonprofit organization in Evanston, IL, is seeking a Director of Finance to serve as a trusted partner to the CEO, CAO and the Board of Directors. This hands-on leadership role guides all financial operations, from budgeting and cash flow to investments and insurance management. Ideal candidates bring strong nonprofit finance experience, collaborative leadership skills, and a passion for mission-driven work. Requirements
Essential Functions Financial Leadership & Strategy (25%) Partner with senior leadership and the Board to provide financial insights and recommendations. Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning. Oversee investment portfolio management to align with liquidity, risk, and mission goals. Financial Operations & Reporting (40%) Manage all accounting functions including A/P, A/R, payroll, general ledger, and cash flow. Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with GAAP and nonprofit standards. Prepare and present financial statements, budgets, and grant reports. Support fundraising efforts through budget development and donor/grant reporting. Compliance, Risk & Insurance Management (25%) Oversee audits, IRS filings, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Administer all organizational insurance programs (including therapy coverage) and maintain all risk management systems Team, Systems & Process Leadership (10%) Supervise Finance Staff and collaborate with HR, Operations, and Consultants. Strengthen financial systems, policies, and procedures for efficiency and accuracy. Provide financial guidance and training to staff and managers. Qualifications
Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA, CFA, or MBA preferred). 7–10 years of progressive experience in financial management, including at least 3 years in a nonprofit finance leadership role. Proven expertise in cash flow management, investment oversight, insurance carrier administration, and 403(b) plan management. Knowledge of medical billing, payer credentialing, and insurance reimbursement processes is strongly preferred. 3+ years’ experience as a supervisor Skills & Competencies Deep knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and fund accounting principles. Proficiency in running payroll, accounting systems (e.g., Financial Edge, Converge) and advanced Excel skills. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex financial data to non-financial audiences. Collaborative leadership style that fosters trust, teamwork, and transparency. Commitment to The Cradle’s mission, values, and equity goals. Benefits
This position is eligible for our full benefits package, which includes medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, life insurance, and a 403b retirement plan. In addition, we offer excellent PTO/paid time off benefits, including vacation, sick and personal time, along with paid holidays.
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The Cradle, a leading nonprofit organization in Evanston, IL, is seeking a Director of Finance to serve as a trusted partner to the CEO, CAO and the Board of Directors. This hands-on leadership role guides all financial operations, from budgeting and cash flow to investments and insurance management. Ideal candidates bring strong nonprofit finance experience, collaborative leadership skills, and a passion for mission-driven work. Requirements
Essential Functions Financial Leadership & Strategy (25%) Partner with senior leadership and the Board to provide financial insights and recommendations. Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning. Oversee investment portfolio management to align with liquidity, risk, and mission goals. Financial Operations & Reporting (40%) Manage all accounting functions including A/P, A/R, payroll, general ledger, and cash flow. Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with GAAP and nonprofit standards. Prepare and present financial statements, budgets, and grant reports. Support fundraising efforts through budget development and donor/grant reporting. Compliance, Risk & Insurance Management (25%) Oversee audits, IRS filings, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Administer all organizational insurance programs (including therapy coverage) and maintain all risk management systems Team, Systems & Process Leadership (10%) Supervise Finance Staff and collaborate with HR, Operations, and Consultants. Strengthen financial systems, policies, and procedures for efficiency and accuracy. Provide financial guidance and training to staff and managers. Qualifications
Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA, CFA, or MBA preferred). 7–10 years of progressive experience in financial management, including at least 3 years in a nonprofit finance leadership role. Proven expertise in cash flow management, investment oversight, insurance carrier administration, and 403(b) plan management. Knowledge of medical billing, payer credentialing, and insurance reimbursement processes is strongly preferred. 3+ years’ experience as a supervisor Skills & Competencies Deep knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and fund accounting principles. Proficiency in running payroll, accounting systems (e.g., Financial Edge, Converge) and advanced Excel skills. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex financial data to non-financial audiences. Collaborative leadership style that fosters trust, teamwork, and transparency. Commitment to The Cradle’s mission, values, and equity goals. Benefits
This position is eligible for our full benefits package, which includes medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, life insurance, and a 403b retirement plan. In addition, we offer excellent PTO/paid time off benefits, including vacation, sick and personal time, along with paid holidays.
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