Director of Finance

The Justice Climate Fund (JCF) is a purpose-built nonprofit designed to provide the capital and technical knowledge necessary for community lenders to successfully finance clean energy projects in low-income and disadvantaged communities across the country. JCF will capitalize its coalition members, including Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) banks, loan funds, and housing developers, to create a clean and just energy transition for their communities.

JCF is supported by an existing ecosystem of coalition members, including the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs, National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders, National Bankers Community Alliance, Partners for the Common Good, and Oweesta Corporation, along with technical assistance partners that will help community lenders deploy clean energy projects. With its $940 million award from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, JCF will stand up a Community-Based Green Lender Certification Program that utilizes several application waves and capital reservations to ensure that community lenders receive funding only once they have been appropriately assessed, trained, and certified.

About the Position

To move JCF to its next level of success, JCF seeks a Director of Finance to lead and oversee the organization’s financial strategy and operations. Reporting to the Chief Financial and Operating Officer, this critical role ensures the financial health and sustainability of JCF, providing strong financial acumen and insightful financial guidance to the Executive Team. The ideal candidate will have deep financial expertise, demonstrated experience helping to scale nonprofits, and a strong track record in financial planning and risk management.

Job Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Operations

• Direct and manage the JCF’s financial strategy, compliance, and day-to-day operations Develop long-term financial sustainability plans aligning with the organization’s mission, strategic goals, and growth objectives
• Develop the annual budget and revised midyear forecasts; develop financial targets and multiyear forecasts; and analyze variances and key drivers of performance Identify and manage financial risks, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and organizational policies
• Oversee implementation and improvement of financial and accounting policies and practices
• Partner with JCF’s Controller in their oversight of audit, year-end close, grants management, and regulatory filings
• Assess and analyze opportunities for revenue generation and operational efficiency
• Advise on financial impacts, outcomes, and risks Oversee investment policies, procedures, and controls
• Conduct dynamic financial forecasting and scenario planning to assess future financial risks and opportunities
• Coordinate with the Chief Financial & Operating Officer to ensure significant contracts comply with all policies and procedures Implement best practices in financial management and operations to enhance the organization’s financial health, ensuring equity considerations are integrated into operational decisions

Leadership & Management

• Collaborate with senior management to set annual budgets; develop budget monitoring procedures and guidance to enhance monthly financial review process Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that encourages innovation and excellence
• Provide regular feedback and professional development opportunities for team members Leads documentation and sharing of best practices
• Participate in meetings, conferences, and seminars to remain up to date on trends and emerging issues

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, business administration, public administration, or a related field; Advanced degree preferred
• CPA preferred
• 10 years of experience in financial management, preferably in the nonprofit sector
• Strong business acumen with a deep understanding of GAAP, financial planning, analysis, forecasting, and nonprofit fundraising processes
• Proven ability to develop and implement financial strategies that align with organizational goals
• Must be deeply aligned with JCF’s mission, demonstrating a genuine passion for and experience in environmental justice and community lending
• Demonstrated experience in applying an equity lens to financial decision making and resource allocation
• Expertise in creating financial models and analyses Proven ability to manage budgets, financial reporting, and risk management
• Must thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, as the organization is a new startup that is continuously evolving
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Entrepreneurial mindset and passion for building and growing businesses
• A collaborative, flexible leader who projects maturity, confidence, and credibility to external stakeholders, investors, and partners and brings exceptional skills as an active listener, community convener, consensus builder, and advisor

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health benefits package
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development funds and opportunities
• Collaborative and inclusive organizational culture

An Equal-Opportunity Employer with a Commitment to Diversity

The Justice Climate Fund (JCF) is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As an organization committed to diversity, we consider applicants equally without regard to age, race, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, or national origin on the basis of genetic information, political affiliation, pregnancy, or veteran status.