2025-217 Interim Vice President of Finance

POSITION TITLE: Interim Vice President of Finance

DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM: Finance and Accounting

REPORTS TO: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

STATUS: Remote/Part-time 

LOCATION: Washington, D.C.

DURATION: Temporary, not to exceed one year

ABOUT OCEAN CONSERVANCY

Ocean Conservancy works to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together with our partners, we create evidence-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it.

POSITION SUMMARY

Ocean Conservancy is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Interim Vice President of Finance to provide executive-level financial leadership during the implementation of a new accounting system. This temporary role is designed to ensure the seamless continuation of daily financial operations while the CFO focuses on strategic priorities.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic and seasoned financial leader with a passion for nonprofit work and a commitment to excellence. They are highly analytical, detail-oriented, and capable of making strategic decisions under pressure. With a proven ability to lead and inspire teams, the candidate should possess exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate complex financial concepts to diverse stakeholders. This individual thrives in a collaborative environment, brings a proactive approach to problem-solving, and is dedicated to supporting the mission of Ocean Conservancy.

This temporary role, not to exceed one year, provides a unique opportunity to contribute to Ocean Conservancy’s mission while ensuring financial stability and operational success during a period of significant transition.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Supervision:

• Lead and supervise Finance department staff, providing mentorship, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Leverage team strengths and clarify individual, departmental, and organizational roles to achieve optimal performance.
• Foster a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.

Financial Systems and Processes:

• Collaborate with the CFO to design and implement efficient accounting, internal control, and financial management systems.
• Partner with the CFO to oversee the implementation of a new accounting system, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with organizational needs.
• Maintain financial infrastructure, including processes for budgeting, forecasting, monitoring, and reporting.

Audit and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and the Code of Federal Regulations for federally funded programs.
• Oversee audit preparation, including the drafting of GAAP-compliant financial statements and Form 990 filings.
• Maintain robust internal control structures to safeguard organizational assets and ensure accountability.

Financial Performance and Reporting:

• Monitor and evaluate financial performance, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare periodic financial performance reports for the Executive Leadership Team and the Board of Directors.
• Lead the monthly re-projection process.

Strategic Support:

• Serve as a key resource for addressing complex financial inquiries and decisions.
• Work with cross-functional teams to identify challenges, gather information, and implement solutions.
• Provide strategic insights to support long-term financial planning and decision-making.

Other Duties:

• Perform additional duties and projects as assigned to support organizational objectives.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• CPA certification required.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 5 years of experience leading financial operations in a 501(c)(3) organization.
• At least 3 years of public accounting experience.
• Proven track record of managing:
• Accounts payable, multi-state payroll, and general ledger maintenance.
• Restricted award life cycles from proposal to close-out.
• Audit preparation and compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Experience with Sylogist Mission or Microsoft Business Central preferred.

SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES

• Superior knowledge of no