Finance Manager

Founded in 1996, the African American Policy Forum (AAPF) is a progressive think tank that brings together academics, activists, and policymakers to tackle structural inequality. We harness innovative ideas and perspectives to reshape public discourse and policy. Our focus is on frameworks and strategies that promote racial justice through an intersectional lens, addressing the interconnected impacts of race, gender, class, and other barriers that marginalize individuals. AAPF is committed to advancing racial justice, gender equality, and the holistic protection of human rights both in the U.S. and globally.

The African American Policy Forum (AAPF) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Finance Manager to join our team. In this role, you will oversee the financial operations of the organization, ensuring sound fiscal management that supports our mission and strategic goals.

As an adept financial professional with a passion for social justice, you will bring a detail-oriented approach and a proven track record of success in financial management. You will play a critical role in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, while ensuring compliance with nonprofit financial regulations and best practices. This role involves managing all aspects of the organization's financial health, including overseeing accounting functions, maintaining internal controls, managing audits, and ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting. You will collaborate closely with AAPF’s leadership team to align financial planning with programmatic goals, ensuring resources are optimally allocated to maximize impact.

The position is based in New York City and may require infrequent travel for conferences and meetings.

Financial Planning & Budgeting

• Develop and oversee the organization’s annual budget, ensuring alignment with AAPF’s programmatic goals and long-term financial strategy.
• Collaborate with department heads to create program-specific budgets, forecasts, and financial models. We should include this with the first bullet point.
• Monitor organizational cash flow and forecast future financial needs.

Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Ensure timely and accurate recording of all financial transactions in accordance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles).
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for internal use (including statement of activities, statement of financial position, cash flow etc.) and external stakeholders, including the Executive Leadership Team, funders, and board of directors.
• Oversee the timely reconciliation of accounts, including bank and credit card accounts, as well as general ledger reconciliation.

Grants & Fund Management

• Manage financial aspects of grant applications, including budget creation, grant reporting, and tracking of restricted and unrestricted funds.
• Ensure compliance with donor restrictions and reporting requirements for grants and contracts.

Audit & Compliance

• Lead and manage the internal preparation for the annual audit process, liaising with external auditors and ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared and accurate.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local tax and nonprofit regulations, including filing of required forms (e.g., 990).
• Maintain internal controls to safeguard the organization’s assets and ensure accurate financial records.

Payroll & Benefits Administration

• Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal and organizational requirements.

Financial Analysis & Strategy

• Develop, implement, and maintain AAPF’s financial policies and procedures in alignment with the organization's strategic goals.
• Provide financial analysis to support decision-making on new initiatives, investments, and partnerships.
• Advise senior leadership on financial trends, forecasts, and strategic opportunities.
• Assist in identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies to maintain financial stability.

Vendor & Contract Management

• Oversee the management of contracts with external vendors and service providers, ensuring cost-effectiveness and compliance with agreed terms.
• Coordinating the procurement process by identifying vendors, preparing RFPs, reviewing responses, and managing the vetting and selection process;.

Team Collaboration & Capacity Building

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide financial insights and align financial resources with programmatic priorities.

Technology & Systems Management

• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial software and tools to streamline accounting and reporting processes.
• Ensure data integrity and security within financial systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance; CPA or MBA are a plus.
• Minimum of five years demonstrated experience within a non-profit accounting or finance department.
• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Familiarity with Bill.com, Harvest, Rippling or similar platforms strongly preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Google suite, Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks.

The salary range for this position is $85,000-$95,000 plus a benefits package that includes medical, vision and dental coverage, 401(k) option, technology stipend, professional development stipend, PTO and a number of paid holidays.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references with the subject line “Finance Manager Application.” Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis at careers@aapf.org.

The African American Policy Forum (AAPF) is an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to building a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and we strongly encourage applications from individuals who have historically been underrepresented in nonprofit, academic, and policy work.

AAPF prioritizes the employment of people of color, women, individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those with lived experiences that align with our mission. We believe that diversity in all forms enhances our ability to achieve our organizational goals and fosters a work environment where every individual can thrive. We welcome applicants who bring different perspectives and experiences, as we work to advance social justice and racial equity in all aspects of our programming and advocacy.

If you are committed to advancing racial and social justice and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply.