Director of Finance

Organization Overview

The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) is an independent, nonprofit animal welfare organization serving the state of Utah. With an annual operating budget of approximately $10–15 million, HSU provides lifesaving services, including adoption, medical care, spay/neuter programs, and community outreach.

HSU is committed to responsible financial stewardship, transparency, and accountability to donors, grantors, and the community.

Position Summary

The Director of Finance serves as the organization’s senior accounting and compliance leader, responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of all financial activities. This role oversees accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and regulatory compliance, while supporting strategic decision-making aligned with the mission.

The Director of Finance plays a critical role in safeguarding HSU’s financial assets and ensuring compliance with nonprofit accounting and reporting requirements for a mid-sized organization. In addition, this position will help build organizational capacity as a coach and mentor to finance staff, helping develop technical accounting, financial analysis, and leadership capabilities within the department.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Financial Compliance & Regulatory Oversight

· Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit accounting standards.

· Oversee preparation and review of IRS Form 990 and all regulatory filings.

· Lead the annual external audit process and serve as primary liaison with auditors.

· Create, optimize, maintain, and continuously improve internal control systems to mitigate financial and operational risks.

· Ensure compliance with grant requirements, donor restrictions, and accounting standards.

· Support board finance committee and reporting.

Accounting & Financial Reporting

· Direct all accounting functions, including:

o General ledger maintenance

o Accounts payable and receivable

o Month-end and year-end close

· Prepare and review timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

· Develop and maintain financial reporting dashboards and performance metrics.

· Ensure accurate allocation across programs in accordance with nonprofit standards.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis

· Lead the annual budgeting process for a $10M–$15M organization.

· Provide ongoing forecasting and variance analysis.

· Support leadership with financial modeling and scenario planning.

· Monitor cash flow, operating reserves, and liquidity.

Systems & Technical Oversight

· Manage and optimize financial systems and accounting software.

· Ensure data integrity across financial platforms.

· Identify opportunities for automation and improved financial reporting capabilities.

Leadership & Team Management

· Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff through ongoing coaching, training, and professional development.

· Establish clear performance expectations and support employee success.

· Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Required Education & Experience

· Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field (CPA or Master’s degree preferred).

· Minimum 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience.

· At least 3–5 years in a leadership role, preferably in a nonprofit organization of similar size ($10M+ budget).

· Demonstrated experience managing audits, compliance, and financial reporting.

Technical Competencies

· Strong knowledge of:

o Nonprofit accounting principles

o GAAP and financial statement preparation

o Internal controls and audit processes

· Experience with:

o Form 990 reporting

o Grant accounting and compliance

o Budgeting and forecasting

· Advanced proficiency in:

o Accounting systems (e.g. QuickBooks Online, Bill, Spend and Expense)

o Microsoft Excel (financial modeling, analysis)

Core Competencies (Soft Skills)

· Mission Alignment: Passion for animal welfare and commitment to nonprofit impact.

· Integrity & Accountability: Demonstrates ethical stewardship of financial resources.

· Cross-Functional Collaboration: Works effectively with programs, development, and executive teams.

· Communication Skills: Clearly communicate financial insights to non-financial audiences, including board members.

· Adaptability: Operates effectively in a dynamic, resource-conscious environment.

· Strategic Thinking: Balances compliance with forward-looking financial planning.

· Emotional Intelligence: Builds trust and positive working relationships through self-awareness, empathy, and professionalism.

· Coaching and Development: Demonstrates patience, approachability, and a commitment to developing others through mentoring and training.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range

· $95,000 – $125,000 annually

Compensation is commensurate with experience, qualifications, and demonstrated expertise in nonprofit accounting, financial management, and leadership.

Benefits Package

· Medical, dental, and vision insurance

· Retirement plan (403(b))

· Paid time off and holidays

· Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

· Professional development support

· Mission-driven work environment

Work Environment

· Primary work location: Murray, UT (on-site or hybrid based on organizational needs)

· Occasional evening or weekend work for audits, board meetings, or deadlines

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Humane Society of Utah is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their experience in nonprofit financial management and alignment with HSU’s mission. Please submit required documents via email to bjones@utahhumane.org or visit our website at https://www.utahhumane.org.