Vice President for Finance

Researching and communicating climate change impacts and solutions

About the Organization

Founded in 2008, Climate Central is an independent group of scientists and science translators who research and report the facts about our changing climate and how it affects people's lives. We use science and tech to generate thousands of local storylines and compelling visuals that make climate change relevant and show what can be done about it. We address climate science, sea level rise, extreme weather, energy, and related topics. We collaborate with journalists, TV meteorologists, and other respected messengers, reaching broad audiences through local voices in the US and 150 nations. Our research and visuals appear in thousands of TV spots and tens of thousands of other news stories each year, with our growing impact.

Mission Statement

Climate Central communicates climate change science, effects, and solutions to the public and decision-makers.

Vision Statement

At Climate Central, we envision a world where public will to address the climate challenge is robustly deep, broad and sustained– where it becomes a core element of culture everywhere.

Core Values

• Scientific and Journalistic Integrity
• Importance of Informing the Public
• Effective Communication
• Equity
• Collaboration
• Policy Neutrality

Organization Website

About the Role

What You'll Do

Climate Central seeks an experienced Vice President for Finance to play a critical role in setting the strategy for our financial health, sustainability, and growth of a $10M+ organization, as we work to advance our mission. This is an outstanding opportunity for a senior finance leader with a proven track record of creative problem-solving and change management to join a growing, mission-driven organization. The VP for Finance is a hands-on leader who will ensure Climate Central has the infrastructure, systems, and processes that enable us to sustainably manage our organization. A successful VP for Finance will bring strong technical accounting knowledge, keen insight on financial planning and analysis (FP&A), and the desire to improve processes and implement best practices.

Financial Strategy, Vision, and Leadership (50%)

• Provide tactical and strategic financial input and leadership for Climate Central's financial modeling and planning, budgeting, cash flow, and investment priorities.
• Lead robust and transparent strategic budgeting and monitoring processes, in conjunction with the executive, department, and program leadership teams, that will foster collaboration and accountability between Climate Central and its stakeholders.
• Optimize deliberate financial modeling, reporting, and analysis to provide senior-level leadership with access to data and information that enables them to make timely decisions.
• Oversee the development of best-in-class financial infrastructure, including processes and systems to ensure the organization maximizes business efficiencies.
• Serve as the management liaison to the Board's Finance Committee; prepare timely and accurate board and committee materials and effectively communicate and present critical financial matters at select board of directors and committee meetings.
• Maintain continuous lines of communication, keeping the CEO informed of all critical issues.
• Represent the organization externally, as necessary, particularly in collaboration with the VP for Administration on banking and lease negotiations.

Financial Operations (40%)

• Oversee all functions of accounting, including responsibility for financial reporting, financial operations, and financial planning, including payables, receivables, payroll, financial reporting, annual reporting, tax preparation, and auditing.
• Oversee monthly close tasks including, but not limited to, preparation of journal entries, account reconciliations, and other miscellaneous analysis. Ensure timeliness, accuracy, and completeness as it pertains to the close process.
• Own timely and accurate audit preparations and ensure a smooth annual audit process; also own annual 990 preparation, state filings, and 5500 testing for the 401(k) plan.
• Work with the development team and program directors on budgets for new/ renewing grant proposals and financials for donor reports.
• Ensure all accounting processes, reporting, and operations are in compliance with US GAAP and other federal, state, and local requirements.
• Identify and analyze variances and unusual transactions as identified. Communicate and resolve as appropriate.
• Recommend, establish, and maintain controls to ensure accuracy and provide safeguards.
• Establish and maintain the reporting systems and controls to ensure compliance with consolidation and reporting requirements, regulatory compliance, and effective risk management.

Organizational Effectiveness (10%)

• Define, drive, and track strategic objectives and key performance indicators in support of healthy and sustainable finances.
• Drive decisions on initiatives affecting the organization's operating performance while effectively managing risk and overhead.
• Contribute to the implementation of cross-collaborative, organizational business improvements and strategies.
• Manage staff supporting the above functions, as applicable.

Who You'll Work With

• You will report to the Chief of Staff.
• You will supervise 2 external consultants.
• You will frequently collaborate with the Department Leadership Team, which includes the Chief Technology Officer, VP for Admin, VP for Content Creation, VP for External Communications, VP of Engagement and the Executive team (CEO, Chief of Staff, Chief Program Officer, and SVP for Development).

Required Skills and Experience

• An undergraduate degree in accounting, business administration, finance, economics, or related fields is required; public accounting and/or CPA license is strongly preferred.
• 7+ years of senior professional experience in a senior financial leadership position.
• Experience with oversight and responsibility for the finance and accounting functions of a non-profit with a budget of $10M+.
• Expertise in strategic planning and financial management, including the ability to identify growth opportunities, effectively align resources with organizational goals, and instituting change management initiatives.
• Deep understanding of data driven financial planning and analysis, risk management, financial forecasting/reporting, budgeting, and systems integration.
• Ability to "roll up your sleeves" and dig into tactical work; Extensive experience creating project and grant proposal budgets, funder reports, and releasing funds; Deep knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standards.
• Strong executive presence and outstanding verbal and written communication skills.

Salary

The expected base salary range for this position is $150,000 to $170,000. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Benefits

• Medical benefits
• Dental benefits
• More than 7 weeks of paid vacation and holidays available annually
• 12 weeks of paid family leave
• 401k with up to 12% matching

Partial college tuition for children of employees who qualify

Learn more about Climate Central's comprehensive benefits here

Application Instructions

Qualified individuals, please apply at: https://www.on-ramps.com/jobs/3351

On-Ramps is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe social change happens when people with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and identities come together with a common purpose. We’re partnering with the team at Climate Central to build a diverse team. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

On-Ramps is committed to the inclusion of all qualified individuals in the hiring process, including but not limited to those with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation(s) to participate in the application or interview process, please contact info@on-ramps.com.