Chief Financial Officer (4878)

MERCY HOUSE•Santa Ana, CA

3d•$150,000 - $185,000

About The Position

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a strategic and visionary leader responsible for the overall financial health and integrity of Mercy House Living Centers and CHDO. This role provides executive-level leadership and oversight for all financial operations, financial planning, risk management, and compliance activities. The CFO acts as a key advisor to the Executive Staff and Board of Directors, driving long-term financial strategy, ensuring fiscal sustainability, and maximizing resources to advance the organization's mission. A strong background in non-profit finance and, specifically, experience in real estate development, including affordable housing projects, is of significant value to this role. The CFO will directly supervise the Accounting Manager and Senior Accountant. This position will collaborate closely with Senior Budget and Contract Director, and the CEO.

Requirements

Master’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; CPA required.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive financial leadership experience.
Demonstrated significant experience in non-profit finance, including in-depth knowledge of regulations specific to 501(c)(3) organizations.
Experience in the financial aspects of real estate development, particularly in affordable housing, including securing and managing various financing structures (e.g., LIHTC, tax-exempt bonds, public grants, private equity).
Proven track record of developing and implementing financial strategies that drive organizational sustainability and growth.
Extensive experience with GAAP for Not-for-Profits, IRS regulations for 501(c)(3) organizations, grant accounting, and federal funding compliance.
Demonstrated experience managing complex budgets (60M+ annual budget preferred) and overseeing multiple funding streams.
Experience with advanced financial management software (e.g., NetSuite, Blackbaud Financial Edge, Sage Intacct) and superior Excel skills.
Strong commitment to the mission and values of Mercy House Living Centers and a deep understanding of the unique financial landscape of not-for-profit organizations.
Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
Superior verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial information to diverse audiences, including non-financial stakeholders and the Board of Directors.
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including funders, auditors, banking partners, and real estate development partners.
Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing finance teams.
An ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
Ability to sit for extended periods.
Ability to use a computer and other office equipment.
Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
A valid CA Class C Driver’s License is required.

Responsibilities

Strategic Financial Leadership & Planning Develop and execute the organization's long-term financial strategy, aligning with the mission and strategic goals of Mercy House Living Centers and CHDO.
Conduct comprehensive financial analysis to inform strategic decision-making, evaluate new initiatives, and assess program effectiveness.
Develop and implement robust financial models and forecasting tools to predict future financial performance and identify potential challenges or opportunities.
Participate in securing diverse funding streams, working in collaboration with the development team to support grant applications and donor relations.
Participate actively in Board of Directors meetings, providing insightful financial reports and strategic recommendations.
Provide financial leadership and oversight for real estate development projects, including financial modeling, securing development financing (e.g., tax credits, bonds, public/private partnerships), managing construction budgets, and ensuring financial viability of new and existing properties.
Collaborates on the annual budgeting process, working closely with the CEO, DCEO and the Senior Budget and Contract Director, Finance Committee and department heads to establish sound financial targets and resource allocation.
Financial Oversight & Management Oversee all financial operations, including accounting, accounts receivable/payable, general ledger, and revenue recognition, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Oversee the management of organizational cash flow, investments, and banking relationships to optimize liquidity and secure assets.
Establish and enforce strong internal controls, policies, and procedures to safeguard organizational assets and ensure regulatory compliance.
Provide executive oversight for all grant financial management, ensuring strict adherence to grant agreements, timely reporting, and effective utilization of funds.
Collaborate with the Senior Budget and Contract Director to oversee the annual independent audit process.
Ensure all financial activities comply with GAAP for Not-for-Profits, IRS regulations for 501(c)(3) organizations, and all other applicable federal, state, and local financial regulations.
Manage the financial aspects of all organizational properties, including property accounting, debt management, and financial reporting for real estate assets.
Reporting & Analysis Prepare and present clear, comprehensive, and insightful financial statements and reports to the Executive Staff, Finance Committee and Board of Directors.
Provide financial analysis to support strategic decision-making, program evaluation, grant proposals, and new initiatives.
Monitor key financial performance indicators (KPIs) and provide regular updates and actionable insights to senior leadership.
Develop and maintain dashboards and reporting tools to provide real-time financial visibility.
Develop and present detailed financial analyses for real estate development opportunities, including proformas, cash flow projections, and return on investment analyses.
Team Leadership & Development Directly supervise, mentor, and empower the Accounting Manager, fostering their professional growth and ensuring effective management of the accounting team.
Provide leadership and guidance to the department, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Oversee recruitment, training, and performance management for the accounting team.
Champion professional development opportunities for all accounting staff.
Technology & Systems Lead the selection, implementation, and optimization of financial management software and systems to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and reporting capabilities.
Ensure the accounting team leverages technology effectively to streamline processes and improve data analysis.
Evaluate and implement specialized software or systems necessary for real estate development, financial management and reporting.
Risk Management Identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks to the organization, including operational, compliance, and strategic risks.
Develop and implement contingency plans to address potential financial challenges.
Assess and mitigate financial risks specifically related to real estate development projects.