Financial Services - Associate Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer

The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe.

The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world.

The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security.  The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.

Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, IA, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI.  Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). 
 

Job Summary/General Purpose of Job

• The Chief Financial Officer will direct and oversee the financial activities of the American Bar Association, direct the preparation of current financial reports and summaries, develop forecasts predicting future performance, and maintain positive working relationships with key external constituencies in the financial field.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent)

• Serves as the strategic, trusted partner to the Executive Director & COO, the member leaders, and the senior management team in all matters related to financial strategy, fiscal compliance, and day-to-day financial operations of the Association.
• Creates, oversees, leads, and fosters an environment of fiscal controls while enhancing their efficiency and effectiveness, as appropriate.
• Develops plans for growth to increase revenue in collaboration with members and senior staff leadership.
• Responsible for leading and managing all financial and accounting functions including, but not limited to, long-range financial planning, budgeting, financial reporting and analysis, auditing, tax reporting, cash management, risk management, treasury operations, payroll and accounts receivable/payable.
• Provides financial updates and recommendations to the Finance Committee, the Board of Governors, the Audit Committee, the A-E-F-C Pension Committee, and the Thrift Committee.
• Interacts with the Investment Committee of the Association and entities to manage investments and reserves of the Association.
• Ensures legal and regulatory compliance regarding all financial functions.
• Reviews planning process and suggests improvements to current methods. Analyzes financial operations to identify areas in need of restructuring.
• Provides oversight and management of the charitable development department (FJE).
• Build and lead a high-performing and diverse financial services team, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Foster collaboration and inclusivity that encourages a compliant, ethical, trusted and accountable workforce across a hybrid working environment.
• Interact with external parties to ensure completion of annual audit, access to capital markets and ability to procure insurance coverage in a cost-effective manner.
• Board and committee duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Required Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• At least ten years’ experience leading teams in finance, accounting, financial planning, accounts payable/receivable, treasury management, etc.
• At least five years’ experience negotiating with banks and other financial institutions for lines of credit, cash management, etc.
• Recognized as a certified finance professional, such as a Certified Public Accountant or Certified Internal Auditor, or possession of a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.
• Demonstrated experience developing strategies and business plans that grow revenue through products and services sales.
• Previous experience interpreting complex analytics to evaluate and to refine strategies and measure results.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of successfully building, managing, and developing diverse teams across a remote or hybrid working environment.
• Proficient in database and accounting computer application systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Previous finance experience in a not-for-profit organization or membership association environment, including experience with tax exempt status.
• Previous financial reporting experience.

Physical Requirements

• Typical office work environment.