The Role:

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

Reports to: President & Chief Executive Officer

Overview

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) oversees financial operations for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO), its affiliates Music and EventManagement, Inc. (MEMI),EVT Management, LLC (EVT), and strategic partners, including the May Festival and nonprofit arts organizations.

This role ensures disciplined financialmanagement, transparency, and compliance while aligning with board-approved policies. The CFO leads budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and financial analysis to support long-term sustainability. Additionally, they oversee IT and administrative infrastructure to maintain a high-performance environment. Working closely with the President & CEO and Board, the CFO develops financial strategies that align with the organization's mission and goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Analysis &Decision Support

Provide clear financial analyses to informkey institutional decisions.
Assess financial impactof programs and initiatives, including contribution marginanalysis.
Communicate findings to support growth, funding opportunities, and strategic planning.

Budgeting & FinancialProjections

Develop and monitor the annual operating budget, ensuring timely preparation and variance tracking.
Maintain multi-year financialprojections including monitoring cash flow needs and highlight financial risks.

Reporting & Compliance

Oversee preparation of financial reports(e.g., IRS Form 990, audit)and grant financials.
Support fundraising effortswith financial data and maintaincompliance with accounting standards.

Board & Investment Oversight

Provide leadership to Finance, Investment, and Audit committees, ensuring informed decision- making.
Monitor endowment performance, implement Investment Committeeactions, and reportto the Board.

Vendor &Administrative Management

Oversee key financialvendors, insurance programs, and IT functionsto ensure efficiency and protection of assets.
Support HR in fostering a high-performance culture and ensure smooth administrative operations.

Affiliates & External Relations

Support financial and strategic needs of CSO affiliates (MEMI, EVT, May Festival, etc.).
Represent the organization at key eventsand performances.

Strategic Leadership

Contribute to the organization’s strategic vision to be the most relevant orchestra in America.
Perform other dutiesas assigned.

The Person:

Qualifications:

A minimum of 10 years of experience in finance or accounting, including at least three years with direct supervision of accounting personnel, preferably in a nonprofit performing arts organization or facility manager.
Experienced and knowledgeable of nonprofit audit best practices is required, financial leadership experience gained in the private sector could be beneficial.
A successful track record of providing financial and accounting management to a diverse range of nonprofit organizations of various size andscope preferred.
Prior experience workingwith and communicating effectively with a Board of Directors comprised of members who have a varying degree of investment and financial acumen.
Experienced working as a strategic financethought partner to senior management teams in an organization with multiple businessunits; assisting otherswith financial acumen.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to establish rapport and cultivate relationships across all levels and component parts of the organization.
Strong communication skills, a dynamic speakerand presenter.
Leads and manages teams with empathy, a high standard of excellence, accountability, and inclusivity, allowing for consensus building and recognition of teamwork.
The ability to work closelywith the President& CEO to offer creativeand entrepreneurial, yet practical, ideas to achieve the strategic direction of the CSO with a deep understanding and commitment to the organizational mission.

Education:

MBA, Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Management, or combination of professional work experience, relevant skills and education.
CPA certification preferred

Compensation:

The CSO offers a robust and thoughtfully designedbenefits package that highlights its commitment to the well-being of its employees. Key offerings include Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, all supported by a substantial employer contribution to Health SavingsAccounts. Employees also have the opportunity to invest in their futurethrough a 401(k) plan with employer contributions. Additionally, the CSO offers wellness support through supportive family-friendly policies and an Employee Assistance Program,giving all employeesaccess to valuableresources for managing life’s challenges. This well-rounded benefits package reflects the organization’s continued dedication to promoting the health, financial stability, and overall wellness of both employees and their families.
Total compensation is $250,000- $325,000 per year, depending on experience.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

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Chief Financial Officer