Director of Finance and Operations

About Vanguard Music and Performing Arts - Established in 1967, Vanguard Music and Performing Arts (VMAPA) is a non-profit performing arts organization dedicated to music and movement education. Each year, the organization supports 150+ members, high school through college age, who audition to participate in our nationwide, competitive group: Vanguard Drum & Bugle Corps . VMAPA also runs charity bingo gaming operations in Santa Clara and Redwood City.

Job Role: Director of Finance and Operations

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Status: Exempt

Work Type: Hybrid

Position

The Director of Finance and Operations will be a strategic thought-partner, and report to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The successful candidate will be a hands-on and participative member of the executive team and will support the following areas: finance and accounting, business planning and budgeting, administration, and IT. The Director of Finance and Operations plays a critical role in partnering with the senior leadership in strategic decision making and operations.

The Director of Finance and Operations is responsible for the organization’s financial operations as well as other administrative functions. This includes manages the finance and accounting operations of the entire organization, including budgeting, auditing, payroll, accounts payable and receivables, donations/grant administration, general ledger, and financial statements and reporting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and internal policies and procedures to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial information.

Moreover, the Director of finance and Operations will ensure that Vanguard Music and Performing Arts Non-profit has the systems and procedures in place to support effective bingo and program operations. The Director of Finance and Operations will work closely with department leaders and their staff, not only to educate them regarding finance and accounting procedures but also to explore how the finance function can better support bingo and program operations.

Responsibilities

Financial Planning and Analysis

· Analyze and present financial reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly and annual financial statements; collate financial reporting materials for all donor segments, and overall, all financial, program and grants accounting.

· Coordinate and lead the annual audit process, liaise with external auditors and the finance committee of the board of directors; assess any changes necessary.

· Oversee and lead annual budgeting and planning process in conjunction with the CEO; administer and review all financial plans and budgets, monitor progress and changes; and keep senior leadership team abreast of the organization’s financial status.

· Manage organizational cash flow and forecasting.

· Implement a robust financial management/reporting system.

· Update and implement all necessary business policies and accounting policies; improve the finance department’s overall policy and procedures.

· Effectively communicate and present critical financial matters to the Board of Directors.

Accounting and Financial Reporting:

· Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger maintenance.

· Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for internal and external stakeholders.

· Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

· Manage and track the performance of invested assets in keeping with policies and investment guidelines.

Compliance and Risk Management:

· Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements.

· Manage the annual external audit process and coordinate audit activities.

· Identify and mitigate financial risks through effective internal controls.

Donations/Grant Management:

· Oversee the financial aspects of grant applications and donations, tracking and reporting.

· Collaborate with program managers to ensure proper allocation of funds and compliance with donations and grant requirements.

Cash Management:

· Manage cash flow and forecasting, ensuring the availability of funds for operational needs.

· Monitor and reconcile bank accounts regularly.

Systems Improvement:

· Help identify opportunities for process improvements and implement efficient financial systems.

· Stay informed about changes in accounting standards, best practices and ensure compliance.

Qualifications

· Minimum of a BA, ideally with an MBA/CPA or related degree

· Between 7 – 10 years of overall professional experience; ideally 7 plus years of broad financial and operations management experience

· Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire teams, and work with a wide range of people.

· The ideal candidate has experience of final responsibility for the quality and content of all financial data, reporting and audit coordination for either a division or significant program area.

· Ability to translate financial concepts to – and to effectively collaborate with other staff who do not have finance backgrounds.

· A track record in grants management would be great.

· Technology savvy with experience selecting and overseeing software installations and managing relationships with software vendors; knowledge of accounting and reporting software.

· A successful track record in cost control, budget management and setting priorities; keen analytic; organization and problem-solving skills which support and enable sound decision making.

· Excellent communication and relationship building skills with an ability to prioritize, negotiate, and work with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.

· Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and dedication to the mission of Vanguard Music and Performing Arts nonprofit.

Vanguard Music and Performing Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected status. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $110,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Physical Setting:

• Office

Experience:

• Accounting: 7 years (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Santa Clara, CA 95054