Fractional CFO or Controller

About JGO:
JGO: The Jewish Grad Organization (formerly JGSI) is the national movement for Jewish graduate students and alumni, serving 155 grad campuses and 10,000 constituents across North America through programs, engagement, and community. Our mission is to support the Jewish identity of grad students on campus: engaging, cultivating, and inspiring the next generation of Jewish leaders during this pivotal life stage. Our multidisciplinary programs provide a safe and accessible space to explore Jewish heritage both on campus and beyond, promoting Jewish pride and the Jewish values of ethical leadership, lifelong learning, and communal responsibility in an atmosphere of open inquiry and respect.

JGO is a young and fast-growing Jewish nonprofit that’s making a huge impact. We’re proud to punch well above our weight, and we’re looking for exceptional people to join our journey and help us continue to build our organization.

The Opportunity:
We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated CFO to take responsibility for all aspects of the organization’s financial management, including bookkeeping, revenue and expense tracking, budgeting, payroll and related functions, and tax/audit compliance. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of success in managing financial operations with strong understanding of non-profit accounting principles. This role requires a flexible and results-oriented individual who can both manage day-to-day financial tasks while also ensuring the organization’s financial health and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

Bookkeeping and Financial Operations:

• Manage all bookkeeping tasks, including chart of accounts, expense tagging, income tracking, bank reconciliations, journal entries, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll, in a timely and precise manner.
• Develop and maintain internal controls, procedures and systems for organizational expenses and reimbursements.
• Process and record all transactions on a full accrual basis in accordance with GAAP and the highest nonprofit transparency standards.
• Ensure all financial data is properly recorded in accounting software and CRM.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records to ensure easy and convenient access.

Financial Planning and Budgeting:

• Assist senior leadership by developing and managing both the annual operating budget and individual program budgets.
• Monitor actual performance against the budget and identify any variances.
• Prepare financial forecasts and projections for future years.
• Explore and implement cost-saving measures and strategies.

Financial Reporting and Analysis:

• Prepare all financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, cash flow, payroll reports, and functional expense allocations.
• Analyze financial data to identify trends, assess risks, and inform decision-making.
• Prepare regular financial reports and budgets for the Board of Directors, grant applications, and other stakeholders.

Payroll:

• Prepare employee and independent contractor payroll, ensuring payments and deductions are made accurately and on schedule each pay period.
• Collect, verify, and maintain all necessary documentation (e.g., timesheets, W-9s, benefits enrollment).
• Calculate and remit payroll taxes (e.g., federal, state, local) and other withholdings, including timely preparation and submission of all required reports (e.g., 941s, 1099s, W-2s).
• Track and document any garnishments, paid time off, or benefits contributions; ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies.
• Troubleshoot user issues related to payroll as needed.

Tax Accounting / Independent Audit Support:

• Coordinate with external tax accountants to ensure the accurate and timely preparation and submission of Form 990 and other required filings.
• Serve as the primary liaison with independent auditors, providing PBC list and other documentation accurately and on time.
• Manage communication flow between senior leadership, external accountants, auditors, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth, efficient processes.
• Review draft Form 990s and audited financial statements and address discrepancies.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and accounting standards.
• Stay up to date on federal, state, and local tax laws and nonprofit regulations, advising on necessary changes.
• Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks.
• Monitor potential fraud and safeguard against misappropriation.
• Maintain adequate insurance coverage for the organization and submit necessary reports.

Technology and Systems:

• Accurately and regularly maintain organization’s QuickBooks Online and financial tracking in our CRM.
• Explore and implement technology solutions to improve financial efficiency and effectiveness.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related field preferred.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior financial role, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and non-profit accounting principles.
• Experience with bookkeeping, budgeting, payroll processing, 401k administration, forecasting, non-profit tax accounting, independent non-profit audits, and financial analysis.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and accounting software (QBO).

Key Competencies:

• Financial Acumen: Deep understanding of financial principles and the ability to analyze complex financial data.
• Ethics and Integrity: Commitment to the highest ethical standards and transparency in all financial dealings.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think long-term and develop strategies to ensure the organization’s financial sustainability.
• Leadership: Ability to manage all financial tasks among staff, build trusted relationships, and influence decision-making.