Senior Director of Finance

Optimist International, a leading international non-profit organization dedicated to bringing out the best in youth, communities, and individuals worldwide, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Director of Finance to join our team.  The organization aims to secure a financial leader who can proactively address challenges, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to the organization’s success.

Location:  Optimist International Headquarters Office, 4494 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO  63108

Position Type:  Full-Time, Flexible Work Schedule

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the organization’s values and strategic goals.
• Adapt to changing circumstances, anticipate potential problems, and proactively implement solutions to ensure financial stability and growth.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills in evaluating financial scenarios, forecasting trends, and making informed decisions that align with the organization’s values and objectives.
• Lead the finance team in managing day-to-day financial activities, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, banking, and financial reporting.
• Oversee the management of the organization’s insurance needs, ensuring adequate coverage and risk management.
• Manage employee benefits programs and provide exceptional HR support to the staff.
• Serve as staff liaison to several volunteer committees including the Audit & Finance Committee.
• Ensure compliance with governance policies and regulations relevant to non-profit organizations globally, predominantly in United States and Canada.
• Assist in identifying and obtaining grant funding opportunities, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.
• Optimize banking relationships and strategize to enhance cash positions.
• Understand the missions, programs, and financial structures of the Optimist charitable foundations: Optimist International Youth Programs Foundation, Optimist International Foundation, and Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation. Provide financial guidance to these foundations, as needed.
• Manage the annual audit and supervise the preparation of Form 990 filings and other financial reports.
• Serve as Pension Trustee – responsible for overseeing pension plan accounting, reporting, and management.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, 401k plan, and a generous holiday & PTO policy.
• Opportunity to lead the financial operations of a globally recognized non-profit organization.

Desired Qualifications:

•  Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is required.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in a senior financial management role, preferably within a non-profit organization.
•  Extensive knowledge and experience with insurance and risk management.
•  Proven track record of developing and executing financial strategies that have contributed to organizational growth.
• Strategic thinking abilities, strong analytical skills, and the aptitude to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Effective leadership skills and experience in managing a team of finance professionals.
• Proficiency with Financial Edge accounting software is desired.

How to Apply: 

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to:

finance@optimist.org

Subject:  Sr. Director of Finance Search

Optimist International is an equal opportunity employer.