Chief Financial Officer

Mather is an award-winning, non-denominational not-for-profit organization that is an industry leader in  redefining senior living and wellness for older adults. We are currently seeking a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead our financial strategy ensuring growth and long-term sustainability. The ideal candidate will bring proven experience as a CFO or senior financial executive in a complex, organization/company; expertise in strategic planning, policy creation, financial reporting, investment oversight, and risk management; strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills; and preferably a CPA, MBA, or related advanced degree.

 Dedicated to creating Ways to Age Well^SM,  Mather inspires wellness, creativity, and connection for older adults in Chicagoland and beyond. Our innovative senior living communities—both for-profit and not-for-profit, include Mather Place (Wilmette, IL), Splendido (Tucson, AZ), The Mather (Evanston, IL), and The Mather (Tysons, VA)—have earned national recognition from U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek, the Global Wellness Institute, and more. At Mather, we foster a culture of purpose, innovation, and collaboration. Our team is passionate about enriching lives and creating vibrant communities where older adults thrive. We value integrity, inclusion, and continuous learning, and we empower our team members to bring bold ideas to life. Mather is a place where professionals grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel deeply connected to a mission that matters.

This is a full-time, salaried position based at Mather’s headquarters in Evanston, Illinois. The role requires regular travel to Mather’s other locations, including Wilmette, IL; Tucson, AZ; and Tysons, VA. Travel may include site visits, participation in leadership meetings, and support for strategic initiatives. Flexibility and a willingness to travel as needed are essential to ensure strong alignment and collaboration across all Mather locations.

This retained search is led by Korn Ferry’s executive search consultants Jon Sammons and Jhaymee Tynan.  To express interest or nominate a candidate, please contact Korn Ferry at Mather_CFO@kornferry.com.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Vision and Strategy: Partner with CEO/President, Board of Directors, and Possibilities (Executive) Team to shape and drive long- and short-term financial strategies. Evaluate financial impact of strategic initiatives and benchmark performance to industry standards.
• Growth: Collaborate with leadership (CEO/President and SVP, Business Development) to expand Mather’s Areas of Service—Senior Living, Community Initiatives, and Mather Institute. Lead financing for new developments and maintain strong relationships with equity partners and rating agencies.
• Integrity of Financial Reporting & Accounting: Oversee financial audits, operating and capital budgets, forecasts, and tax compliance. Ensure accurate reporting and leverage AI-powered dashboards for data-driven insights.
• Financial Management, Controls & Compliance: Ensure strong internal controls and financial policies. Oversee risk management efforts and support the Board Audit Committee. Monitor compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Growth of Investments: Guide investment strategy in partnership with the Board and CEO/ President. Support the Investment Committee, oversee portfolio rebalancing, and evaluate performance of investment managers and consultants.
• Treasury Function: Direct cash flow, debt management, banking relationships, and capital planning. Lead financing strategies including bond offerings and rate management.
• Service Excellence, Quality & Process Improvement: Champion continuous improvement and quality assurance aligned with Mather’s Service Excellence Standards.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• Master’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance, or area relevant to role strongly preferred
• Certified Public Accountant and/or Chartered Financial Analyst a plus.
• Minimum 10 years of experience.
• Experience in for-profit or not-for-profit senior living, luxury hospitality, or residential real estate desired. Experience with entrance fee senior living communities helpful.
• Passion for serving as a role model in fostering Mather’s core values of being Inclusive, Resilient, Bold, and Impactful.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, growth environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strategic and growth-oriented mindset with experience in helping grow companies, and capability to execute tactical initiatives.
• Experience working with a savvy Board Investment Committee and overseeing investment management consultant and investment managers a plus.
• Proven negotiation skills for optimizing relationships with lenders, equity partners, vendors, rating agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Track record in conducting due diligence and overseeing integration processes for new development and acquisitions. 

Benefits

Mather offers a competitive benefits package.*

Team members are eligible for:

• A generous paid time off (PTO) program including vacation days/personal days, sick days, and holidays. This is an “earn-as-you-go” plan that rolls over year to year, offering long- and short-term flexibility.
• A 401(k) program with per pay-period employer match and annual employer contribution (available to those age 21 or better)
• Convenient, subsidized parking (or public transportation for certain locations)
• Wellness Spending Account: up to $300 available annually for Wellness related expenses such as gym memberships, financial planning, etc. 

Benefits-eligible team members can take advantage of:

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Paid Parental Leave
• Adoption Assistance Reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
• Extended illness benefits
• Employee wellness programs
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance - free to all team members 

*Benefits are subject to change without notice. Benefits details dependent on employment status.

About Mather

Based in Evanston, Illinois, Mather is a unique, non-denominational, not-for-profit organization founded in 1941. Dedicated to developing and implementing Ways to Age Well^SM, we create programs, places, and residences for today’s young-at-heart older adults. Mather has received a national certification as a Great Place to Work^®, and has been selected as a Nation’s Best and Brightest in Wellness Award recipient four years in a row.

Mather is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to an inclusive workforce. Candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.