Our Mission

Strengthening families to create brighter futures for children.

Our Vision

A just society in which all children, families, and communities have equitable opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive.

Who We Are

Founded in 1963, Starfish Family Services is a nonprofit human service agency, recognized as a champion for children and families across metro Detroit who have limited access to essential resources such as education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Serving more than 3,000 children and their families annually, we provide high-quality programs and support services that focus on early childhood education and development, behavioral health wellness, and empowered parents. Through our holistic approach, Starfish partners with families so they have access to the right resources at the right time.

Position Summary

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is responsible for overseeing all financial functions within the Agency, ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of the organization. In close collaboration with the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Directors, and executive leadership team, the CFO will develop and implement financial strategies, create fiscal forecasts, and assess their impact on the organization. They will ensure accurate financial reporting and uphold the organization’s financial integrity. Additionally, the CFO will serve as the primary liaison to support the Board Treasurer (Finance Committee Chair) and Audit Committee Chair. The CFO will ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and regulations, while aligning financial decisions with the organization’s mission and goals.

Education & Experience

A Master’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance is required.
A minimum of 8 years of experience in fiscal management, including 2 - 3 years executive leadership/supervisory experience is required.
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation is preferred.

Duties & Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Planning

Collaborate with the CEO and Board of Directors to develop long-term financial strategies aligned with the organization’s mission.

Prepare and present financial reports and analysis to the Board, including forecasts and strategic financial plans. Develop and manage the annual budget and provide financial oversight for strategic initiatives.

Financial Management & Reporting

Oversee the financial operations of the organization, including accounting, payroll, grants, fiscal management, and financial reporting.

Ensure accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for nonprofits.

Oversee internal and external audits and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Revised 09/2024.

Manage the preparation of all financial reporting, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.

Ensure proper cash flow management and liquidity to meet the organization’s operational needs.

Compliance & Risk Management

Ensure the organization complies with all legal, regulatory, and financial reporting requirements. Work with legal counsel and external auditors as needed to manage risk and ensure compliance.

Oversee the organization's risk management strategies, including insurance and risk mitigation plans.

Ensure compliance with nonprofit tax reporting (e.g., IRS Form 990) and any other regulatory filings.

Internal Controls & Financial Policies

Develop, implement, and oversee robust internal financial controls to protect the organization's assets and ensure financial integrity.

Establish and regularly update financial policies and procedures to promote operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

Leadership & Team Management

Lead and mentor the finance and accounting team, ensuring proper training and professional development.

Act as a strategic advisor to the CEO and senior leadership team on all financial matters, providing insights and guidance to support informed decision-making and organizational growth.

Foster a culture of financial transparency and accountability within the organization.

Collaborate with department leadership to support financial decision-making and program budgeting.

There is a need for strong collaboration with program and development teams to create well-structured, effective budgets for grants. It is important to evaluate whether the current structure fully meets the organization’s needs in this area.

The CFO should take an active role in this process or ensure the team is trained and supported to collaborate effectively with program and development teams, fostering a seamless partnership.

In addition to the technical skills and experience required, we seek a CFO who is collaborative, transparent, and dedicated to building strong, productive relationships across the organization.

Leading and managing the finance team, the CFO will prioritize cross-training and enhancing operational efficiency within the team. The goal is to support team members in becoming more knowledgeable and effective in their roles, enabling them to make sound, informed decisions.

The ideal candidate will strike a balance between providing support and empowerment while holding the team accountable for results.

Experience with federal grant management and fee-for-service models is highly desirable. Candidates with a for-profit background may face a learning curve transitioning into the nonprofit sector, while those with nonprofit experience may not have exposure to revenue sources beyond philanthropic donations.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The CFO will ensure that DEI principles are incorporated into the organization's financial practices, budgeting, and resource allocation. This includes supporting initiatives that drive diversity, equity, and inclusion within the financial team and across the organization.

The CFO will advocate for diverse perspectives in financial planning and decision-making processes, ensuring that financial strategies reflect the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Ensure that the organization’s procurement and vendor management processes reflect a commitment to diversity and inclusion by prioritizing diverse suppliers and service providers.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required

Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting standards, including GAAP and fund accounting.
Experience with financial management software.
Proven ability to create and manage complex budgets and financial models.
Experience overseeing audits and managing compliance requirements.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.
Leadership experience, including team management and collaboration with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
High-level of integrity and accountability, with a commitment to the organization’s mission, vision, and values.

Licensing And Other Requirements

Valid driver’s license and / or reliable transportation.

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Chief Financial Officer - Starfish Family Services