The Chicago Zoological Society has an exciting, fast-paced work environment and a family friendly atmosphere which is very customer focused, as we host over 2 million guests to Brookfield Zoo each year. We are committed to conservation in the broadest sense and we take PRIDE in every aspect of our operation. One of our organization's core values is Diversity, valuing differences and the respectful involvement of all people, employing and leveraging the gifts, talents, and experience from each person's culture, perspective, and background to create value for the organization and make it even more successful. As an organization that is dedicated to wildlife and habitat conservation, we recognize and appreciate the value in diversity in all its dimensions.

The Sr. V.P. of Finance is an executive-level position reporting to the CEO and responsible for directing all financial functions of the organization, including accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, financial forecasting and analyses, payroll, cash management, investments, debt structure, audits, internal controls, contract review, insurance and risk management, and grant and contract administration and associated compliance.

Primary job duties include the following: Establishes financial policies and objectives for the organization. Ensures accurate analysis, interpretation, evaluation, and reporting of financial results. Implements controls to assure the organization is fiscally sound and financial resources appropriately allocated. Performs meaningful financial analyses to guide decision-making. Keeps executive management and Board of financial position and affairs. Makes recommendations regarding finances, financial policies, and programs. Assures the safekeeping, control, and accounting of assets and securities. Reviews all contract agreements, in consultation with Society legal counsel as needed. Serves as point person with legal counsel for non-employment related legal actions. Oversees annual development of an accurate and thorough budget. Assures proper accounting of all tax collections and other financial transactions with the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Works with CEO to control and assure a balanced annual budget. Serves on various committees, including Information Security Working Group, 401(k) Working Group, and Board Finance and Investment Committee, Audit Committee and Executive Committee. Monitors and reports institution's progress toward MBE and WBE goals. Oversees financial and accounting computer systems, financial systems, and reporting. Assures compliance with accounting, financial, government and legal requirements.

Responsible for relationships with banks and financial institutions. Makes recommendations regarding prudent investment policy and debt structure. Monitors and manages Society investments to maximize returns and assure investments are within investment policy guidelines. Responsible for property and casualty insurance, Director and Officers' coverage, and other insurance and benefit coverages to assure appropriate financial planning, risk management, and decision-making. Oversees the Cash Control Department and operations. Supervises 4 direct reports and 10 next-level reports, plus seasonal staff.

Position Requirements and Specifications
Position requirements: Master's Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration (with a major in Finance) and/or equivalent combination of training and experience. 7 years of comparable-level financial management experience for a medium or large organization. Experience with fund accounting or in a non-profit organization a plus. Strong leadership ability, presentation skills, and ability to translate financial terms and information into understandable terms. Strategic orientation. Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. Understanding of computerized financial management/database systems. Strong interpersonal, communications, and organizational skills. Flexible, assertive and tactful individual with high integrity and strong work ethic. Able to work under pressure, juggle priorities, and meet deadlines. Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills. Must be able to maintain confidentiality of privileged information. Ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural workforce and audience. Valid driver's license required. Must have basic computer proficiency and understanding of computerized financial management/database systems. Certified Public Accountant (C.P.A.) preferred. Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.