Associate Director of Finance & Operations

MISSION 

Humanities New York is known nationally as an innovator and leader in the exciting and growing field of the public humanities. Using dialogue, reflection, and critical thinking, Humanities New York applies the humanities to strengthen democratic society.

OPPORTUNITY 

Are you a finance professional who has a passion for the nonprofit sector? 

Are you inspired to play a vital role in the dynamic field of the public humanities? 

Are you excited to work with different teams and HNY board members, and represent the organization with new and existing partners?

Are you a lifelong learner, avid reader, curious researcher, and self-starter?

If so, we invite you to keep reading and consider your role in helping invest in New York State communities. 

HUMANITIES NEW YORK 

Since 1975, Humanities New York has been the sole statewide proponent of the public humanities, offering grants and signature programs to the cultural field across the state. It is the NYS partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities and a member of the Federation of State Humanities Councils, which networks HNY with its counterparts in every US state and territory. Its grants and programs have a decades-long focus on and track record of equitable distribution and user-friendly accessibility. HNY’s new strategic plan includes work with prison populations, including a new grant line for equitable partnerships, a book discussion program, and a podcast; an annual public event with VIP opportunities; and work with Indigenous people across NYS. HNY is proud of its diverse and illustrious board of directors, staff, and 200+ partner organizations across the state. Its commitment to DEI work and training also descends from a long-time focus on equity and justice. During the pandemic, HNY successfully pivoted to online events and provided relief grant opportunities through the Federal CARES and ARP acts, making it a key resource during difficult times. HNY advocates for public support of the humanities, in general, and the National Endowment for the Humanities in particular, and reports on the statewide results of public funding. 

SUMMARY

The Associate Director of Finance & Operations (ADF) reports to the Deputy Executive Director. The ADF is responsible for the ongoing strategy, administration, and maintenance of all financial systems across the organization. Duties of the ADF include oversight of all financial management and accounting systems; creation of the organization’s annual budget and tracking of all expenditures; administration of grant payments and reporting; management of organizational payroll and select benefits; and supervision of in-office operations and systems.  

Responsibilities: 

Financial Management and Accounting 

• Lead annual planning and budgeting process; manage organizational cash flow and forecasting
• Manage all accounts receivables and payables
• Supervise auditor to ensure compliance with annual audit and tax preparation 
• Create and present financial reports to senior leadership and the Board of Directors 

Grants Management and Reporting

• Oversee financial management of all government grants, including proposals, financial reporting, subreceipient financial reporting, and draw-downs
• Manage all restricted funding accounts; create internal mechanisms to track all expenditures; provide institutional reporting, as needed
• Work collaboratively with all HNY staff on monthly income and expense reconciliation

Payroll and Benefits Administration

• Run bi-monthly payroll for all employees
• Coordinate with Human Resources to administer select employee benefits, such as 403B contributions, HSA contributions, and commuter benefits

Strategic Operations 

• Manage all in-office operations including, but not limited to, ordering office supplies, handling business insurance policies, and being the point-of-contact for the office building
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current financial systems and softwares
• Update and document all business policies and procedures

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree with 6-10 years of finance, grants management, and accounting experience, or commensurate work experience
• Exceptional project management, prioritization, and planning skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines across a variety of stakeholders
• Attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and interpersonal
• A true team player that collaborates with colleagues in a hybrid environment
• Ability to work with flexibility and efficiency
• A natural sense of curiosity and creativity
• Ability to track progress using specific metrics and analyze performance data
• Experience with a variety of software systems with the capacity to grasp new systems and concepts quickly
• Experience with grant-making software preferred 
• Experience with Salesforce preferred
• An active interest in the public humanities preferred