Senior Financial Specialist

Sr. Finance Specialist – Bethesda, MD (Hybrid)

A mission-driven research and think tank organization advancing economic justice and opportunity for all.

A nationally respected nonprofit research and policy institute is seeking a Finance Specialist to join its growing Finance and Operations team. This organization is widely recognized for its leadership in shaping federal and state policies that expand economic opportunity, strengthen public systems, and promote equity for communities facing systemic barriers.

The Finance Specialist will support day-to-day financial operations across a multi-entity environment, working closely with the CFO and a tight-knit team. This role blends core accounting responsibilities with administrative support, project coordination, and cross-departmental collaboration—all within an organization committed to rigor, impact, and inclusivity.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations & Cash Management

• Record and apply cash receipts weekly; research discrepancies and ensure accurate posting.
• Support accounts receivable, revenue tracking, and quarterly reconciliations.
• Partner with internal teams to ensure timely cash application and reporting.

Accounts Payable, Disbursements & Expense Management

• Process invoices and support the end-to-end AP cycle.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure proper workflows, coding, and compliance.
• Manage credit card reconciliation and supporting documentation for Finance and IT.

Month-End Close, Reporting & Audit

• Assist with monthly close activities, workpapers, and reconciliations.
• Support journal entry preparation and audit requests.
• Contribute to the annual summary of audited financial information.

Finance & Administrative Support

• Provide operational support to the CFO, including scheduling, communications, and project execution.
• Assist with board meeting preparation: materials, minutes, agendas, and logistics.
• Support team calendaring, document retention, contract coordination, and general departmental administration.
• Serve as backup for various Finance functions as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 3 years of experience in accounting, finance, or related operational roles.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and GAAP; experience with reconciliations.
• Proficiency in Office 365, Outlook, SharePoint, and comfort with learning new systems.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and integrity.
• Service-oriented mindset and ability to build positive cross-functional relationships.
• Commitment to advancing equity and supporting mission-driven work