Executive Vice President of Finance

YMCA Buffalo Niagara Association Overview

Founded in 1852, YMCA Buffalo Niagara is the second-oldest YMCA in the United States and one of the oldest institutions in Western New York. Throughout its long history, the Y has adapted to serve the ever-changing needs of the community. YMCA Buffalo Niagara is one of Western New York’s leading nonprofits, the largest child care services provider, and one of the largest employers in the area.
YMCA Buffalo Niagara fulfills its mission by offering a full spectrum of youth development, health and wellness, social, and recreational programs to more than 1 in 15 people in Erie and Niagara Counties, regardless of race, religion, age, ability, and income level. As a dynamic, charitable community-based organization, the Y provides financial assistance to thousands of youth, families, and seniors each year so that they can take part in YMCA membership and programs. YMCA Buffalo Niagara has five wellness centers, two overnight camps and runs programming in over 50 off-site locations.


Please note: Applications must include a cover letter and resume to be considered.

For the Position Profile, click Here

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Executive Vice President of Finance serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and a strategic partner to the CEO, ensuring the long-term financial strength and sustainability of the organization. This mission-driven leader oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, compliance, and risk management, while providing strategic insight and guidance to support innovation and growth across the association.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Strategic & Organizational Leadership
• Partner with the CEO and senior leadership team to develop innovative financial strategies that drive growth in programs, services, and organizational impact.
• Conceptualize, formulate, and analyze internal and external information and trends to identify risks, opportunities, and emerging needs. Provide the CEO and leadership team with recommendations that support long-term sustainability and mission advancement.
• Collaborate with the COO and branch leadership in the development and implementation of the Association’s annual operating budget, ensuring realistic budget targets and alignment with organizational goals.

2. Financial Oversight & Planning
• Oversee all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with strategic goals.
• Provide timely, consistent, and actionable financial information and insights to the CEO, senior team, and Board of Directors.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, not-for-profit accounting standards, and all relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
• Analyze monthly financial reports and highlight critical areas of concern for corrective action.
• Manage cash flow and liquidity, maintaining healthy operating reserves and efficient use of organizational resources.
• Serve as staff liaison to the Board of Directors’ Finance Committee and Board of Trustees on matters related to finance and investments. Recommend fiscal policies for board consideration

3. Department & Team Leadership
• Oversee the accounting and information systems departments.
• Supervise the Controller and IT Director, fostering a culture of leadership development, accountability, customer service, and continuous improvement.
• Lead and mentor the finance team to ensure operational excellence and support across branches.

4. Audit, Compliance & Risk Management
• Lead preparation and coordination of internal and external audits. Serve as the primary liaison to external auditors.
• Ensure compliance with all reporting requirements including IRS Form 990, NYS Char 500, sales and use tax returns, 1099s, and payroll-related tax filings.
• Protect and maintain the Association’s tax-exempt status and facilitate required documentation for exemption applications.
• Manage organizational insurance programs, ensuring adequate coverage and protection of assets.
• Develop and maintain robust financial policies, internal controls, and risk management systems.

5. Banking, Investments & External Relations
• Manage relationships with banks, financial institutions, and investment managers. Oversee all banking, debt financing, and investment activity.
• Negotiate terms and secure financing for capital projects in alignment with organizational needs and financial capacity.
• Represent the YMCA with professionalism in all external financial and regulatory matters.

6. Additional Responsibilities
• Carry out other duties as assigned by the President & CEO.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• Experienced Leader: Bac