Director of Finance

ABOUT US: 

The Lions, much like the city and community they represent, are built on a blue-collar work ethic that values hustle and conviction.  

Ford Field, the home of the Lions since 2002 in the heart of Detroit, is part of a vibrant sports and entertainment district featuring all four major professional sports franchises. Ford Field is also home to a dedicated and passionate multi-generational fan base reflective of the innovation, creativity and drive synonymous with Detroit.

Under the leadership of Sheila Hamp, the great granddaughter of Henry Ford, the Lions have ushered in an era of rebirth focused on creating an inclusive and equitable experience for employees, partners and fans. Building off the rich and diverse history of the city, the Lions embrace transparency and value contribution from all areas of the organization. We believe in the power of a pride, and acknowledge winning together takes understanding, acceptance, and teamwork. We believe in our “we” culture and are committed to building a new tradition that Detroit and Michigan can be proud of. 

One Pride. For All. 

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Director of Finance position at Allen Park is responsible for providing information, primarily financial in nature, about all Company activities that will assist management in making educated decisions about the organization’s financial future.  This position establishes accounting policies and procedures to ensure that all financial transactions are executed and documented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principals. In addition, this function participates and provides review over A/P, A/R, general ledger, budgeting, forecasting, cash management, and fixed assets.  In addition, the Director will be responsible for relevant Club deliverables. This position also is key in supporting technological advances in financial reporting and budgeting. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The Director of Finance position will have responsibilities, including but not limited to, the following:

• Responsible for workload monitoring and coaching of staff accountants at Allen Park.
• Direct accounting operations at Allen Park; oversee transactions related to the general ledger, receivables, payables, and fixed assets, and works with all other areas of the entity’s operation areas to ensure that operations run smoothly, and all areas of the entity have the proper support that they need to perform their tasks in their area of responsibility.
• Analyze and interpret financial and statistical information in order to appraise operating results in terms of profitability, budget performance and other matters bearing on the fiscal soundness and operating effectiveness of the organization and reports such results to the SVP of Finance and/or Chief Financial Officer, or such other person that she may designate.
• Coordinate and direct preparation of the budget and financial forecasts for all Allen Park business units. Assist with the Detroit Lion’s budget process. Coordinate assembly of the entity wide financial budget in conjunction with the SVP of Finance.
• Design, establish, and maintain systems and internal controls which verify the integrity of all integrated systems, processes and data to enhance the Company’s value.
• Develop and implement process improvements, and all necessary accounting policies and procedures, with a goal to serve the other business units of the organization in achieving their individual department goals.
• Assist in coordination and implementation of new department technology.

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Ensures that required monthly, semi-annual and annual financial reports and management reports are issued accurately and timely.
• Analyzes the company’s financial position with respect to profits, trends, costs, compliance with budget, and reports findings/recommendations to the SVP of Finance and Chief Financial Officer.
• Assist in building out department personnel needs and training new staff.
• Assist in the generation of quarterly financial reporting and year end financials.
• Provide accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual financial statements, and provides necessary specialized reports that other areas of the organization may request.
• Assist SVP in all financial reporting is in compliance with tax, league, salary cap, debt covenants and lease requirements.
• Oversee tracking and review of cash position with forecasts of short-term and long-term cash flows and future cash requirements and obligations as a basis for maintaining adequate funds.
• Review Club account reconciliations
• Review Club entries to general ledger accounting system and perform account analysis on general ledger accounts including month-end closing
• Track expenses and revenues vs. budget on the Club side and analyze fluctuations
• Coordinate with the Club’s staff and provide all necessary information for timely and accurate year-end audit reporting package, including all necessary information necessary for report, tax provision, and tax return.
• Respond to CFO’s and/or SVP of Finance’s requirements with accurate and timely financial data to facilitate financial needs of the entire Detroit Lions/DLI Properties/Ford Field organization.
• Effectively manage relationships with bank, attorneys, independent auditors, clients, vendors, tenants, senior management and facility employees.
• Participate in a wide variety of special projects and compile a variety of special analytical reports.
• Perform other related duties as assigned
• Will accept other responsibilities and duties required by the supervisor consistent with the objectives and essential functions of this position

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

• The candidate must be a hands-on, self-starter who can work both independently and as a member of the management team.
• The candidate must be an excellent communicator and facilitator with the ability to adapt quickly to changing work priorities and requirements in a fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance plus CPA certification. MBA preferred.
• Should have 6 – 10 years of hands-on accounting managerial experience in relevant industries (Entertainment venue, Retail, Commercial Real-estate, and other service-related industries).
• Proven Supervisory experience with ability to communicate with all skill levels of subordinate personnel.
• Technical and comprehensive knowledge of all accounting and financial reporting, as well as property management functions.
• Strong oral and written communications, decision making, organizational, and analytical skills.
• PC proficient with and excellent working knowledge of, MS Excel, Word, Outlook and Best FAS.
• Strong process automation experience.
• Knowledge of a variety of CRM and enterprise wide systems.
• Ability to set goals and achieve objectives in a timely and orderly fashion.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and stay organized under stressful situations.
• Ability to meet deadlines and take direction.
• A valid Driver’s License and a good driving record
• Ability to work with a flexible schedule, in order to be available for major scheduled events, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

To apply, please submit a copy of your resume along with a cover letter detailing your interest and related experience to the position.

Due to the high volume or resumes received, we regret that we are unable to update candidates on the status of their application. Those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Please no phone calls or emails.