Chief Financial Officer - Hybrid

SHELTERING ARMS
EARLY EDUCATION AND FAMILY CENTERS
JOB DESCRIPTION______________________________________________________________________
OFFICIAL TITLE: Chief Financial Officer
SUPERVISOR: President and CEO
DEPARTMENT: Finance
SALARY RANGE: In accordance with Sheltering Arms Salary Schedules
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Full Time Exempt

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

Sheltering Arms is one of Georgia’s most respected early childhood education providers, serving children
and families for over 135 years. Our mission is to close opportunity gaps by delivering high-quality early
learning, comprehensive family support, and strong community partnerships that build the foundation
for lifelong success.

Our work is guided by seven core values: Results, Empathy, Adaptability, Collaboration, Trust,
Teamwork, and Cultural Competence. These values shape not only how we serve our communities but
also how we support one another as colleagues. We are committed to creating a welcoming and
inclusive environment that honors the diverse experiences of the children and families we serve, while
fostering personal growth, mutual respect, and operational excellence.

Joining Sheltering Arms means becoming part of a mission-driven team dedicated to helping every child
and family thrive through opportunity, access, and care.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as the organization's key strategic partner and financial steward,
providing oversight and direction for all fiscal functions, including accounting, budgeting, financial
reporting, grants management, and compliance with federal and state regulations. This executive role
ensures the integrity of the agency’s financial operations and supports effective decision-making
through detailed analysis and financial planning.

Working closely with the President/CEO, Executive Leadership Team, Board Finance Committee, and
Head Start and Early Head Start leadership, the CFO builds and maintains a fiscal framework aligned with
the agency’s mission and strategic goals. The CFO ensures timely, accurate financial reporting and
fosters strong fiscal management practices to sustain and grow the organization’s impact.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Financial Management and Reporting

• Directs the preparation of all financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, tax filings, and government regulatory reports.
• Oversees the accounting department, budget preparation, and audit functions; meets regularly with the President/CEO and Board Finance Committee.
• Maintains the Agency’s system of accounts and records for all transactions and assets.
• Coordinates budget development, financial forecasts, and cost accounting systems.
• Monitors cash flow to ensure accurate and timely payments.
• Prepares and analyzes interim and final financial statements and supporting schedules for management.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and organizational fiscal reporting requirements.

Grant and Fund Accounting

• Manages fiscal grants including account setup, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting.
• Prepares and submits financial reports and ensures accurate drawdowns and invoicing.
• Develops and monitors grant budgets and ensures ongoing compliance. 

Audit and Compliance

• Coordinates audit activities and ensures accurate record keeping to facilitate audits.
• Assures protection of assets through sound internal controls and appropriate insurance coverage.
• Oversees tax planning and compliance with all applicable tax regulations.
• Prepares and reviews annual reports including Form 5500s and Form 990.

Team Leadership and Development

• Supervises the Controller, Accounting Manager, and accounting staff.
• Assigns duties, manages performance, trains, coaches, and develops team members.
• Leads the development and implementation of Accounting Policies and Procedures.

Strategic Planning and Operational Efficiency

• Lead the organization’s financial forecasting and scenario planning processes to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities, enabling data-informed decision-making and long-term sustainability.
• Collaborates with the President/CEO, Executive Leadership Team, Board and Finance Committee to develop operational financial controls and strategic plans.
• Analyzes cost centers and chart of accounts to optimize financial tracking and reporting.
• Develops and monitors the Indirect Cost Pr