Financial Director

Summary

A vibrant, historic, and growing Charleston-area church seeks a Director of Finance to steward and strengthen the financial health of the parish and its school.

This key leadership role reports directly to the Rector and serves as a core member of the senior leadership team. The Director oversees all financial and facility operations for both the church and the school—encompassing strategic planning, budgeting, compliance, and fund management (including donor-restricted funds).

The Director will also manage all aspects of building maintenance and facility operations, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environment for ministry and community use. This position supervises the Chief Accountant and plays a vital role in ensuring long-term financial and operational sustainability to support the church’s mission: proclaiming the Gospel, making disciples, and serving the Charleston community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement financial strategies, budgets, forecasts, and scenario plans.
• Oversee cash flow, investments, and banking relationships.
• Ensure proper fund accounting and compliance with donor restrictions.
• Partner with ministry leaders to align financial resources with church goals.

Accounting & Reporting

• Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, AP/AR, and payroll.
• Manage payroll and benefits administration (in partnership with outsourced providers or finance staff).
• Prepare and present timely financial statements (Statement of Activities, Financial Position, Cash Flows, and Functional Expenses).
• Manage the annual audit process and ensure compliance with GAAP and ASC 958 nonprofit standards.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Donor Management

• Lead annual budgeting in collaboration with ministry leaders and committees.
• Monitor budget performance and recommend corrective actions.
• Provide multi-year financial forecasts for strategic decision-making.
• Ensure accurate recording and acknowledgment of contributions and restricted funds.
• Partner with stewardship committees to promote a culture of generosity and accountability.

Systems Implementation & Process Improvement

• Evaluate and improve financial processes and systems for efficiency.
• Lead implementation of new accounting or financial management software.
• Establish policies and internal controls for purchasing, expense tracking, and reporting.
• Provide staff training to support adoption of new systems.

Facilities & Maintenance Oversight

• Oversee operation, maintenance, and repair of all facilities, grounds, and equipment.
• Develop preventive and seasonal maintenance schedules.
• Ensure compliance with safety, accessibility, and building code requirements.
• Manage facility budgets, repairs, and capital improvements.
• Oversee cemetery and columbarium records, including plot sales, contracts, and mapping.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all nonprofit financial, tax, and employment regulations.
• Maintain strong internal controls and financial safeguards.
• Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks.
• Manage all church and school insurance programs (property, liability, D&O, fidelity, EPLI, and bonding).
• Develop strategies to mitigate identified organizational risks.

Strategic Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve as a strategic partner to the Rector on financial sustainability and long-term planning.
• Provide financial analysis to support informed decision-making.
• Build and maintain relationships with auditors, banks, vendors, and public officials.
• Lead and develop the finance team to foster accuracy and continuous improvement.
• Communicate financial status to Clergy, Vestry, committees, and congregation as appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• Active and growing Christian faith lived out in a worshiping community.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum of five years in senior financial leadership roles.
• Deep understanding of GAAP and nonprofit accounting principles (including fund accounting).
• Strong grasp of compliance, risk management, and financial regulations.
• Proven leadership, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• Proficiency in financial management software and reporting systems.
• Adaptability and ability to thrive in a dynamic, mission-focused environment.
• Commitment to the mission and ministry of the church.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Retirement contribution plan.
• Health and dental insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Opportunities to serve within a historic, mission-driven organization.
• Participation in a vibrant worshiping community.
• Occasional evening or weekend responsibilities for meetings/events.

*Please send resume in Word (Not PDF) format. Thanks!