What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Finance position at Cowgill?
Director of Finance (Finance, HR & Risk Management)
Reports to: Vice President
Position Summary
The Director of Finance the executive responsible for overseeing the company’s finance, accounting, human resources, and risk management functions. This role combines hands-on operational leadership with strategic financial insight to support the company’s growth, development projects, and long-term planning.
The Director of Finance serves as a key business partner to the President, providing financial modeling, forecasting, and analysis to inform decisions across development, asset management, and operations. This individual ensures the organization's financial integrity and proactively identifies opportunities to improve performance and support growth initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Strategy
- Partner with the leadership team to develop and execute financial strategies aligned with company goals
- Provide forward-looking financial insights, scenario planning, and decision support
- Evaluate development opportunities, acquisitions, and investments using financial modeling and return analysis
- Support long-term planning, capital allocation, and business growth initiatives
Accounting & Financial Operations
- Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, and financial reporting
- Ensure the timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP
- Lead month-end and year-end close processes
- Maintain and improve internal controls and financial processes
- Coordinate audits, tax filings, and regulatory compliance
Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis
- Develop and manage budgets and forecasts for projects
- Lead cash flow planning and ensure sufficient liquidity for operations and development activities
- Forecast financial performance for development projects, assets, and company operations
- Analyze financial results, identify trends, and provide actionable recommendations
- Monitor budget variances and collaborate with leadership to improve performance
Project & Investment Support
- Build and maintain financial models for development and acquisition projects
- Partner with development and asset management teams to assess project feasibility and profitability
- Assist with lease analysis, asset performance tracking, and return optimization.
- Support financing efforts by preparing financial materials and conducting analysis
Human Resources Leadership
- Oversee HR functions, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee relations
- Administer payroll, benefits, and compensation programs
- Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations
- Maintain HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook
- Support leadership in organizational planning and workforce strategy
Insurance & Risk Management
- Evaluate, manage, and maintain all company insurance policies, including liability and property insurance
- Identify financial and operational risks and implement mitigation strategies
- Ensure appropriate coverage for development projects and company operations
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
- CPA or MBA preferred
Experience
- 10–15 years of progressive experience in accounting and finance
- Experience in a leadership role with oversight of accounting operations
- Strong background in financial modeling, forecasting, and analysis
- Experience supporting strategic decision-making and business growth initiatives
- Exposure to HR functions and employment practices
- Experience in real estate, development, or property management strongly preferred
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and financial modeling skills
- Ability to translate financial data into strategic insights
- Hands-on leader comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels
- High level of integrity and ability to manage confidential information
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Experience with financial and property management systems (e.g., AppFolio or similar) preferred