What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director, Finance & Administration position at Grand Rapids Ballet?
Company Description Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB), founded in 1972, is Michigan’s only professional ballet company and a recognized leader in contemporary dance. Under the artistic direction of James Sofranko, a former San Francisco Ballet dancer, GRB has evolved into a company that attracts world-class dancers and commissions innovative works from renowned choreographers of the 20th and 21st centuries. The Company of over 30 professional dancers rehearses at the Meijer-Royce Center for Dance and performs at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre in the heart of Grand Rapids. GRB also operates a ballet school and Junior Company, offering high-quality dance education for students ages 3 and up in a supportive environment that fosters technique, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation of dance. The organization is committed to artistic excellence, community engagement, and providing meaningful cultural experiences to audiences and students alike.
Role Description The Director, Finance & Administration is a full-time, on-site role based in Grand Rapids, MI, responsible for overseeing the organization’s financial management and core administrative functions. This role manages day-to-day accounting operations, including budgeting, cash flow, financial reporting, and preparation of financial statements for leadership and the board. The director supervises internal controls, ensures compliance with regulatory and non-profit reporting requirements, and coordinates annual audits and tax filings. They collaborate with executive leadership on strategic financial planning, support grant and fundraising activities with accurate financial data, and provide analysis to guide decision-making. The role also oversees administrative processes such as HR-related documentation, benefits coordination, and office operations to ensure efficient and effective support for the Company, school, and performance activities.
Qualifications
Role Description The Director, Finance & Administration is a full-time, on-site role based in Grand Rapids, MI, responsible for overseeing the organization’s financial management and core administrative functions. This role manages day-to-day accounting operations, including budgeting, cash flow, financial reporting, and preparation of financial statements for leadership and the board. The director supervises internal controls, ensures compliance with regulatory and non-profit reporting requirements, and coordinates annual audits and tax filings. They collaborate with executive leadership on strategic financial planning, support grant and fundraising activities with accurate financial data, and provide analysis to guide decision-making. The role also oversees administrative processes such as HR-related documentation, benefits coordination, and office operations to ensure efficient and effective support for the Company, school, and performance activities.
Qualifications
- Candidates should possess strong Finance and Financial Planning skills to lead budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial strategy.
- Candidates should possess expertise in Financial Reporting and Financial Statements to prepare accurate reports, manage audits, and support board and stakeholder communications.
- Candidates should possess advanced Analytical Skills to interpret financial data, assess risks, and recommend data-informed operational and strategic decisions.
- Relevant qualifications include experience in non-profit or arts organization finance, knowledge of GAAP, and familiarity with grant and donor reporting requirements.
- Additional beneficial qualifications include proficiency in accounting and ERP software, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with artistic, educational, and administrative teams.
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field required; CPA or advanced degree preferred.