The Finance Specialist is a member of the Operations team and reports to the Director of Finance and Operations. They provide accounting, financial and operational support to help advance the conservation programs of the Connecticut chapter. Responsibilities range from budgeting and reporting assistance to office administration and coordination. They are service-oriented, have strong organizational and systems skills, and possess the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. A positive attitude is essential.
They will provide services in financial management and reporting, accounting, and private award administration for the CT Chapter. The position administers and maintains finance/accounting activities in accordance with TNC policies and procedures and best practices in financial management. They will aid staff in finance-related work and respond to moderately complex employee/management questions and problems based on knowledge of the subject area.
They will assist the Director of Finance and Operations in developing the annual budget, preparing forecasts, monitoring and maintaining all financial information, producing month-end reports and analyses, and preparing journal entries. They will monitor monthly accounting reports and key asset and liability account balances, monitor endowment and loan balances, and provide recommendations related to finances in the overall organizational planning, policy development and implementation. The Finance Specialist will communicate monthly via ad-hoc reports and analysis to program leaders and serve as liaison between the CT Chapter and TNC’s Worldwide Office to ensure accurate processing of income, expenses and transfers. As a member of the Operations team, they will provide back-up administrative assistance for the CT chapter and be responsible for various operational activities.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Responsible for the day-to-day detailed accounting/financial transactions for the chapter and ad-hoc reporting and analysis as needed.
- Coordinate projects with several variables, and work within a defined timeline and budget.
- Ensure programmatic commitments, TNC policies and procedures, financial standards and legal requirements are met and managed for compliance.
- Financial responsibilities include purchasing, processing invoices, managing contracts, check batching and assisting with budget preparation.
- Operations responsibilities up to ~10% include such areas as office reception, vehicle maintenance, mail distribution and ordering office supplies.
- May include ~5% time supporting fee and easement monitoring process
- Reinforces consistency in the organization's policies and procedures and provides support related to relevant field staff.
- Demonstrates sensitivity in handling confidential information.
- Duties may require non-routine analysis, research and follow-through.
- Travel for meetings, training and enrichment a few times a year and work flexible hours as needed.
- Work within scope of program’s strategic goals.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Experience with GAAP and fund accounting principles, practices and regulations.
- Experience using automated accounting systems.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and/or multi-cultural experience appreciated.
- Ability to manipulate, analyze and interpret data. Advanced expertise in Microsoft Excel.
- Accuracy, attention to detail and the ability to multi-task.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Non-profit accounting experience preferred.
- Experience working across teams and communicating with a wide range of people.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.