Role Overview
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) provides strategic financial leadership and operational oversight for the Telluride Association, a nonprofit that provides free educational programs and scholarships for high school and college students. This position manages all aspects of financial operations, accounting, compliance, investments, and reporting while supporting the organization's educational mission and programs. The CFO works closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, program leadership, students, and external partners to ensure sound financial management and sustainability. The CFO is also a primary point of contact in educating and managing board members and program participants on financial matters. This role requires both strategic thinking and hands-on execution. Strong project management skills, a systems approach, attention to detail, ability to educate others on financial matters, and commitment to Telluride’s mission are essential for success.
The CFO reports to the Executive Director, and works closely with staff, students, and Board on a variety of projects. The CFO supervises the Finance & Tech Assistant, as well as maintaining relationships with a variety of external contractors, including bookkeepers, accountants, auditors, investment advisors, and others.
Work Schedule: Full time. Occasional evening and weekend hours required.
Work Location : Hybrid (in office 2-3 days/week) or on site at Telluride Association main office (217 West Ave, Ithaca, NY 14850)
Travel Requirements: Occasional travel required for Board meetings (estimated 2-4 times per year, with travel typically not exceeding 3-5 consecutive days)
Benefits Eligibility : Eligible for paid time off and SELECT benefits (including retirement plan and health insurance, if elected)
Desired Start Date: estimated January 4, 2027
Compensation: $90,317 - $112,897/year
Position Type : Exempt / Regular Full-Time (Administrative)
Position Supervised : Finance & Administrative Assistant
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience : Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience); 5+ years of financial management experience (nonprofit preferred).
Technical & Financial Expertise : Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting principles, tax compliance (Form 990), and ERISA. Proficiency in QuickBooks, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, financial reporting, budgeting, and cash flow management. Familiarity with and ability to learn endowment oversight.
Operations : Experience with payroll administration, employee benefits management, and a technological/systems approach to operations management.
Leadership & Communication : Strong strategic planning, communication, leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills; proven ability to translate complex financial data and gain organizational support from non-financial stakeholders.
Collaboration & Values : Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders across varied professional backgrounds and ages (including students). Commitment to Telluride’s educational mission and values.
Requirements : Ability to meet acceptable background check standards, travel, and work flexible hours (which may include evenings and weekends).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supervising and training financial staff, contractors, and/or volunteers.
Experience working with mission-driven, participatory democratic, and/or higher education partner organizations.
Experience with endowment management, portfolio risk oversight, audit preparation, and charitable fundraising financial requirements.
Demonstrated commitment to enacting anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Responsibilities
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