Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

We are looking for a Finance Director to join our team!

Downstreet Housing and Community Development is a private, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering social justice through the power of affordable housing. We pride ourselves on connecting people to the resources they need to thrive and creating equitable opportunities for everyone in Central Vermont to access safe, healthy homes. Through our work, we strengthen the health and future of our local communities.

Downstreet is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Finance Director to lead all aspects of the organization's financial management. This position oversees the accounting department and takes a strategic role in managing finance, regulatory and financial reporting, budgets and forecasting, financial planning and analysis, treasury management, and internal controls. The Finance Director is a key member of the leadership team, providing financial insights to support decision-making and drive organizational sustainability. This position reports directly to the CFO/COO.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy:

  • Lead and manage the accounting department, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
  • Collaborate with executive leadership to develop and implement financial strategies that advance Downstreet’s mission and long-term sustainability.

Financial Management:

  • Oversee all financial operations, including accounting for federal and local grants and construction projects for affordable housing.
  • Prepare and present accurate, GAAP-compliant financial statements and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Develop and monitor annual operating and capital budgets, conducting variance analysis and producing quarterly financial reports for all fund accounts.

Cash Flow and Treasury Management:

  • Monitor and manage the organization's cash flow to ensure sufficient liquidity for operations and strategic initiatives.
  • Manage banking relationships, credit facilities, and investment accounts to support the organization's financial health and sustainability.

Audit and Financial Oversight:

  • Manage annual audits for the organization and its entities, ensuring timely, accurate compliance with regulatory and reporting standards.
  • Serve as the primary liaison with auditors, coordinate audit schedules, and implement process improvements to streamline preparation and reporting.

Compliance and Controls:

  • Maintain and enforce a robust system of internal controls, ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and organizational requirements.
  • Manage the organization's Chart of Accounts and continuously refine accounting policies and procedures to support operational efficiency.

Operational Oversight:

  • Supervise accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, payroll processes, and treasury functions, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
  • Partner with department leaders to ensure financial accountability and understanding across the organization.

Team Management and Development:

  • Mentor and develop a three-person accounting team, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional growth.
  • Cross-train team members to ensure operational continuity and resilience.

Experience and Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; advanced degree or relevant certification (e.g., CPA, CMA) preferred.
  • Minimum of five years of financial management experience, with at least three years in a leadership role.
  • Experience in nonprofit accounting and grant management strongly preferred.
  • Familiarity with affordable housing and/or construction accounting a plus.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and financial management software; experience with QuickBooks preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, active listening abilities, and problem-solving aptitude.
  • Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and social and economic justice.

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working at a computer

Compensation

Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 per year, dependent on experience.

Benefits: Competitive package including 403b match, health and dental insurance, paid holidays, paid time off, life insurance, and short-term disability.

Application Instructions 

Downstreet is strongest when we have a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We know that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or Veteran status are encouraged to apply.

To apply, please complete the form below. Please include a resume and a cover letter explaining why you would like to be a part of the Downstreet team. Applications submitted without a cover letter will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.