The Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) is a 41-year-old national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing innovative strategies, working models and timely information to support environmentally sound and equitable community development. ILSR is distinguished for its work on recycling-based economic development, zero waste planning, community-owned broadband, small-scale renewable energy advocacy, fighting corporate concentration, and strengthening main street businesses. For more information, please visit www.ilsr.org. We have offices in Minneapolis; Washington, D.C.; and Portland, ME.

Reporting to ILSR’s two co-directors, the Finance & Operations Manager will be responsible for all finance, accounting, and reporting activities, as well as certain administrative and operations functions. This is a tremendous opportunity for a finance and operations leader to maximize and strengthen the internal capacity of a well-respected, high-impact organization.

This position will be based in either our Washington D.C. or Minneapolis office.

Financial Management

Develop, present, and analyze financial reports in an accurate and timely manner, both organization-wide and by program

Lead annual budgeting process in conjunction with co-directors; administer and review all financial plans and budgets; monitor finances and keep senior leadership abreast of ILSR’s financial status

Manage financial transactions, organizational cash flow, and forecasting

Ensure legal and regulatory compliance, internal controls, and efficient financial procedures

Oversee grant management and the timely release of restriction processes, ensuring that expenditures are consistently aligned with grant and program requirements throughout the grant periods

Coordinate and implement all audit activities including liaise with external auditors and the finance committee of the Board of Directors

Effectively communicate and present the critical financial matters to the Board of Directors

Budgeting, Reporting, and Bookkeeping

Support ILSR’s development staff by producing budgets and financial reports for foundation, corporate, and government grants and contracts

Prepare and present monthly financial reports for the leadership team, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow

Oversee the month-end close of accounts and the preparation of journal entries and account adjustments

Maintain all accounting files and the chart of accounts to ensure accuracy in the coding of invoices, check payments, and revenue receipts

Assist with implementing and maintaining internal financial controls and procedures

Make year-end adjusting entries and prepare draft financial report

Handle and oversee accounts payable and receivable

Process payroll twice monthly

Operations

Review and manage all contracts, vendor relationships, insurance policies, leases, and letters of agreement

Ensure timely filing of state charitable registrations and other required corporate filings

Establish policies and procedures to ensure internal control and organizational consistency

Human Resources

Manage health insurance and other benefits administration, including serving as the point of contact for benefits vendors, evaluating options, and making recommendations to the co-directors

Manage on-boarding of new employees in terms of tax forms, payroll, and benefits enrollment

Act as the primary human resources contact for employees’ payroll and benefits needs

Research and develop human resources policies and procedures, under the direction of the co-directors.

Provide counsel and assistance regarding employee relations and other human resources matters

Maintain personnel and administrative files

Required Qualifications

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a leader with at least 5 years of high-level nonprofit accounting and financial experience. Experience in accounting, financial reporting, financial analysis, and managing an audit are required. The ideal candidate will have experience in a complex nonprofit that has multiple programs.

Specific qualifications include:

Enthusiasm for ILSR’s mission

Strong finance experience with a minimum of 5 years of experience in a nonprofit setting, including experience in grants management, coordinating audit activities, financial planning and forecasting, contracts management, and bookkeeping

Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

Bachelor’s degree

Ideal candidate will also have experience in human resources and benefits management

Computer savvy with proficiency in QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and Word

Proven organizational skills and demonstrated ability to meet deadlines while managing multiple tasks and priorities

Self-motivated team player with an eye for accuracy and attention to detail

Strong personal commitment to integrity, confidentiality, and good judgment

Flexibility, a sense of humor, and grace under pressure are all a plus!

How to apply

Please send a thoughtful cover letter and resume to info@ilsr.org with the subject header “Finance & Operations Manager” detailing your experience, interest in the position, and how your skills and experience would enable you to excel at the job. No phone calls, please.

ILSR is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to staff diversity. People of color, women, and LGBT people are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The position will be open until filled. Review of applications will begin immediately. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.