Director of Finance

The Cradle, a leading nonprofit organization in Evanston, IL, is seeking a Director of Finance to serve as a trusted partner to the CEO, CAO and the Board of Directors. This hands-on leadership role guides all financial operations, from budgeting and cash flow to investments and insurance management. Ideal candidates bring strong nonprofit finance experience, collaborative leadership skills, and a passion for mission-driven work.

Essential Functions

Financial Leadership & Strategy (25%)

• Partner with senior leadership and the Board to provide financial insights and recommendations.
• Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning.
• Oversee investment portfolio management to align with liquidity, risk, and mission goals.

Financial Operations & Reporting (40%)

• Manage all accounting functions including A/P, A/R, payroll, general ledger, and cash flow.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with GAAP and nonprofit standards.
• Prepare and present financial statements, budgets, and grant reports.
• Support fundraising efforts through budget development and donor/grant reporting.

Compliance, Risk & Insurance Management (25%)

• Oversee audits, IRS filings, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Administer all organizational insurance programs (including therapy coverage) and maintain all risk management systems

Team, Systems & Process Leadership (10%)

• Supervise Finance Staff and collaborate with HR, Operations, and Consultants.
• Strengthen financial systems, policies, and procedures for efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide financial guidance and training to staff and managers.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA, CFA, or MBA preferred).
• 7–10 years of progressive experience in financial management, including at least 3 years in a nonprofit finance leadership role.
• Proven expertise in cash flow management, investment oversight, insurance carrier administration, and 403(b) plan management.
• Knowledge of medical billing, payer credentialing, and insurance reimbursement processes is strongly preferred.
• 3+ years’ experience as a supervisor

Skills & Competencies

• Deep knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and fund accounting principles.
• Proficiency in running payroll, accounting systems (e.g., Financial Edge, Converge) and advanced Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex financial data to non-financial audiences.
• Collaborative leadership style that fosters trust, teamwork, and transparency.
• Commitment to The Cradle’s mission, values, and equity goals.

Benefits. This position is eligible for our full benefits package, which includes medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, life insurance, and a 403b retirement plan. In addition, we offer excellent PTO/paid time off benefits, including vacation, sick and personal time, along with paid holidays.