What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Finance position at Missoula Housing Authority?
ABOUT MISSOULA HOUSING AUTHORITY
Since 1978, the Missoula Housing Authority (MHA) has served as a cornerstone of housing stability in Montana. As the state's largest housing authority, MHA partners with public agencies, nonprofits, and developers to expand access to safe, affordable homes—and to address homelessness and support economic self-sufficiency. Our work is mission-driven, community-rooted, and nationally recognized for its innovative approach.
THE OPPORTUNITY
MHA is seeking a dynamic and mission-aligned Director of Finance (CFO-equivalent) to join our senior leadership team. This is a high-impact role for a strategic financial leader who thrives at the intersection of rigorous compliance, operational excellence, and community purpose.
You will serve as MHA's top financial officer—overseeing all financial functions, guiding agency-wide strategy, and ensuring the responsible stewardship of public resources. You will lead a team of five finance professionals, partner closely with the Executive Director and Board of Commissioners, and play a visible role in shaping the future direction of the organization.
This role is ideal for a CPA or senior finance leader with government or nonprofit experience who wants to bring their expertise to work that matters—where every dollar managed translates directly into housing stability for Montana families.
Relocation assistance for out-of-state candidates may be considered.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE — FIRST 6–12 MONTHS
- Develop trusted working relationships with the Executive Director, senior leadership, and Board of Commissioners
- Create a professional development and organizational structure plan for the finance team
- Review and strengthen internal controls and streamline financial reporting systems for greater transparency and efficiency
- Assist MHA through the annual audit cycle and HUD Financial Data Schedule (FDS) submission—on time and in full compliance
- Build or refine long-range financial forecasting and scenario planning models that support leadership decision-making
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial Leadership & Operations
- Direct and optimize all financial operations: accounting, payroll, procurement, accounts payable/receivable, and cash flow management
- Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant financial reporting in accordance with GAAP and fund accounting standards
- Design and enforce internal controls that protect organizational assets and promote accountability
- Oversee banking relationships, reserve management, and long-term debt strategy
Strategic Planning & Financial Analysis
- Serve as a strategic thought partner to the Executive Director on organizational growth and financial sustainability
- Build financial frameworks and models that drive clarity, accountability, and informed decision-making
- Translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences—including board members, program staff, and funders
- Monitor economic trends, regulatory changes, and sector developments to identify emerging risks and opportunities
Budgeting, Forecasting & Performance Management
- Lead the annual agency-wide budget development process, coordinating across departments and programs
- Drive accountability through ongoing budget-to-actual analysis, variance reporting, and performance benchmarking
- Develop multi-year financial forecasts and scenario models to inform capital planning and strategic initiatives
- Evaluate financial performance across programs, properties, and grant-funded initiatives
Audit, Compliance & Regulatory Oversight
- Direct the annual audit process and manage external auditor relationships to ensure a clean, efficient audit cycle
- Lead HUD Financial Data Schedule (FDS) preparation and submission; ensure compliance with HUD, OMB Uniform Guidance, and applicable tax regulations
- Proactively monitor compliance requirements across federal, state, and local funding streams
- Manage relationships with lenders, regulatory partners, and oversight agencies
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a finance team of five professionals; cultivate a culture of excellence, learning, and accountability
- Set clear goals and performance expectations; provide regular coaching and feedback
- Assess and evolve team structure to align with organizational growth and operational needs
- Model MHA's values of equity, integrity, and community service in all team interactions
Board Relations & External Engagement
- Present financial reports and strategic recommendations to the Board of Commissioners with clarity and confidence
- Support board policy development, financial oversight, and governance functions
- Represent MHA professionally with external partners, funders, lenders, and government agencies
- Collaborate cross-functionally to align financial strategy with programs, operations, and development activities
Stewardship & Continuous Improvement
- Champion responsible stewardship of public funds and organizational assets
- Identify and lead process improvements that increase efficiency, accuracy, and transparency
- Provide financial analysis and due diligence support for housing development projects and grant opportunities
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 5 years of progressively responsible financial leadership experience
- Deep expertise in government or nonprofit finance, including fund accounting
- Strong command of GAAP, budgeting, and financial reporting
- Demonstrated experience managing audits and compliance obligations
- Proven track record leading and developing teams
- Excellent communication skills—able to make financial data accessible to all audiences
Preferred Qualifications
- CPA, MBA, or equivalent advanced credential
- Experience with HUD regulations and FDS reporting
- Knowledge of OMB Uniform Guidance compliance
- Background in affordable housing, public housing authority, or community development finance
- Proficiency with Yardi, ADP, or comparable ERP/HR/accounting platforms
- Experience supporting or engaging with a governing board
BENEFITS
Salary: $115,000-$128,000 DOE
- The listed salary range reflects a starting point for this position. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, and overall fit, with opportunities for growth over time.
Health, Dental & Vision Insurance: MHA covers 70% of premiums
Retirement: 7% employer contribution w/optional employee contribution
Life & Disability Insurance: Employer-paid life, short-term disability, long-term disability, and AD&D
Paid Time Off
- 15 days of vacation (increases after 3 years)
- 12 days of sick leave
- 11–12 paid holidays
- 3 days of bereavement leave
Additional Benefits
- Parental leave and workplace accommodations
- Cost-of-living salary adjustments
- PLSF Student Loan Forgiveness after 120 payments
- Professional development, including ongoing learning and credentialing support
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- This position operates in a professional office environment with a mix of desk-based work, communication, and coordination tasks
- Regular use of standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and printers
- Frequent interaction with a diverse range of individuals, including in fast-paced or occasionally sensitive situations
- May require prolonged periods of sitting, as well as occasional standing, walking, and reaching
- Occasional light lifting and carrying of items up to 10 pounds
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
MHA is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those with lived experience of housing instability. MHA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.
Salary : $115,000 - $128,000