Chief Financial Officer

Job Title: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) 

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 

Department: Finance 

Salary: $250K-$275K 

Location: Whippany, NJ 

Type: Full-Time 

Hybrid: In office Mondays & Thursdays & second Tuesday a month – subject to change 

Who We Are 

Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ is a nonprofit organization serving the Jewish communities of Essex, Morris, Sussex, Union, and parts of Somerset Counties in New Jersey. Our mission is to convene and lead our community to ensure the continuity and strength of the Jewish people, support a secure Jewish and democratic State of Israel, and care for Jews in need, locally and around the world. Federation empowers individuals to engage meaningfully, make a tangible impact, and access vital community resources. 
 
With over 820 funds generating over $50 million in grant distributions annually, and more than $700 million in total assets under management in our Jewish Community Foundation (JCF), our Federation also raises approximately $30 million annually through donor-driven contributions. Our total annual operating revenue approaches $32 million and supports a wide range of local, national, and global initiatives. 

Position Summary: Chief Financial Officer 

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a key member of the executive leadership team and is responsible for the strategic oversight, direction, and integrity of all financial operations for both Federation and Jewish Community Foundation (JCF). This leadership role encompasses:

- Budgeting and forecasting 
- Financial planning and analysis 
- Accounting and audit functions 
- Insurance and risk management 
- Investment oversight 
- Regulatory compliance 
 
The CFO ensures the organization adheres to nonprofit financial best practices, including the preparation of audited financial statements and the timely filing of IRS Forms 990 and 5500 for both Federation and JCF. 
 
In close partnership with the CEO, Board leadership, and the Finance and Investment Committees for both Federation and JCF, the CFO plays a critical role in stewarding and sustaining financial health and ensuring long-term impact, strategic growth, and mission delivery. 

Key Responsibilities 

Financial Leadership & Oversight of Federation & Jewish Community Foundation 

• Provide strategic financial direction and leadership to Federation and JCF.
• Oversee all accounting and finance functions, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and cash flow management.
• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to ensure sound fiscal management and internal controls.
• Lead the annual audit process and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.
• Staff the Budget & Finance, Audit, and Investment Committees, in close partnership with Committee Chairs.
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP and applicable nonprofit standards.
• Review and sign all vendor contracts. 

Compliance & Reporting 

• Oversee the preparation and submission of all tax returns and governmental and regulatory filings, including IRS Forms 990 and 5500 for Federation and the JCF.
• Manage banking relationships, including operating accounts, loans, and covenant compliance.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and reporting requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of current nonprofit accounting standards, tax laws, and financial best practices. 

Foundation Stewardship 

• Provide financial leadership for JCF, including fund accounting, donor fund tracking, investment management, and grant disbursements.
• Collaborate with development staff and Board/Foundation leadership to ensure fiduciary stewardship of donor funds including restricted and endowed funds and funds held for others.
• Support JCF’s Investment Committee and coordinate investment reporting with the external investment consultant, custodian bank, and donor management vendor.
• Meet with fund holders and prospective fund holders to discuss available services and review investment performance. 

Operational Responsibilities 

• Supervise the information technology vendor relationship, including expenditure approvals.
• Oversee campus facility operations and negotiate tenant leases.
• Manage all corporate legal matters in partnership with outside counsel.
• In conjunction with the insurance broker, ensure adequate property and casualty insurance coverage for Federation and participating agencies.
• Serve as Donor Relationship Manager for select annual campaign donors. 

Strategic & Organizational Leadership 

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO, senior leadership, and the Boards of both Federation and JCF on financial matters and long-term planning.
• Present financial reports, budgets, and updates to the Board of Trustees of Federation and JCF and relevant committees.
• Oversee and mentor Federation and JCF finance staff, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and collaboration. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA required.
• 15–20 years of progressively responsible finance experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, preferably in the nonprofit sector.
• Deep knowledge of nonprofit and fund accounting, including regulatory requirements such as Forms 990 and 5500.
• Experience in managing endowments and donor-restricted funds.
• Familiarity with various investment asset classes and accounting for investments.
• Proven track record of strategic thinking, organizational leadership, and financial stewardship.
• Exceptional analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working with boards and staffing committees.