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Senior Director of Finance Operations

Job Title: Senior Director of Finance Operations

Department: Finance

Location: Oakland, CA or Washington, DC preferred, or remote.

This position requires an ability to travel up to two weeks per year. 

Reports To: Chief Financial Officer

Supervises: Director of Payroll & Accounts Payable, Managing Assistant Controller, (2 to 4 FTE) 


Context: At the Sierra Club, we believe in the power of interdependence. Together, we remain committed to the fight for a healthy climate built on a foundation of environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice – a future where all people benefit from a healthy, thriving planet and a direct connection to nature. As the climate crisis and deeply entrenched systemic racism all fuel injustice, we will continue to fight for a bold, transformational agenda that recognizes the interconnectedness between our planet, our humanity, and our future. By recognizing that our destinies are tied, we continue to name that all things are fundamentally connected, and the overlap between ecology, race, gender, and representative government will move to either advance our collective humanity or to oppress it. Sierra Club has close to 800 staff across the country and a network of 64 local chapters that are led and fueled by thousands of volunteers. We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with three labor unions representing more than half of our employees. 


Scope: The Senior Director of Finance Operations is a key supporting role for the CFO in supporting all financial matters and ensuring the overall financial health of Sierra Club. Responsible for managing the daily accounting operations of Sierra Club, and the preparation and maintenance of the General Ledger, in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles(GAAP). Oversees accounting operations of Sierra Club Political Committee (SCPC), Sierra Club Independent Action (SCIA) and Voter Education funds which are managed by the Managing Assistant Controller. Responsible for creating, adapting, documenting and socializing policies and procedures to ensure proper internal controls for all entities. Supervises the management of central accounting functions for the Sierra Club, including payables, receivables, cash receiving, payroll, tax reporting, and preparation of financial reports and statements. 


Responsible for analyzing financial data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and collaborating with the procurement team and supplier relationships to negotiate pricing and terms to align with the organization’s overall financial goals. Responsible for data integrity of the Club’s financial system, monthly closings and preparation of General Ledger reports.  Responsible for supervising the preparation and evaluation of client prepared audit schedules and overseeing the annual audit process.  In collaboration with the CFO, provides updates and reports to Sierra Club leadership, board members and the Finance Committee. Provides information, reports and assistance to Sierra Club staff, chapters, and volunteers in a variety of accounting matters. Exchanges relevant information with external auditors, government agencies, banks, authors and other vendors. This role will provide a key interface between finance and other departments across the organization.


Job activities include but are not limited to:
  • Accounting, General Ledger, Administration
  • Oversee accounting operations including, but not limited to, financial statement preparation, accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll. 
  • Maintain finance policies, internal controls, accounting standards and procedures to ensure compliance with GAAP principles.
  • Plans, organizes and oversees annual audit of the Sierra Club and selected chapters.  
  • Responsible for on-going balance sheet analysis, identifying opportunities, evaluating risk, ensuring proper utilization and compliance of assets. Evaluates reserve accounts and assures adequacy of balances.
  • Responsible for maintaining relationships with financial institutions, including concentration and secondary banks, lending institutions, and trust accounts.  Makes regular evaluations of Club’s cash management operations and negotiates with banks for cash management services, merchant card fees and custodial fees.
  • Prepares financial reports as requested utilizing knowledge of the general ledger system and strong analytical skills. Makes regular presentations to the Finance and Risk Management Committee regarding the Club’s financial position and financial risks.
  • With the support of the Senior Director of Financial Analysis, project cash flow needs for both National and Chapter Finance, and make borrowing and short term investment decisions.  In conjunction with the Chief Financial Officer, manages the long-term investment process.
  • In collaboration with the Managing Assistant Controller and Sr Accountant Compliance and Tax Reporting, oversees the preparation of the Form 990 and is responsible for compliance of all IRS and other regulatory agencies mandates on accounting of and segregation of funds.
  • Oversees and implements Accounting system conversions, modifications, updates and consolidations.  Anticipates needs, evaluates alternatives, makes recommendations, develops procedures and training.  Evaluates and makes recommendations for systems enhancements, and works closely with other departments to integrate systems.
  • Oversees Strategic Sourcing, identifying organizational needs, sourcing capacity, designing policies, procedures and processes, and record keeping. Regularly reviews organizational spending and identifies potential areas for cost reduction, monitors industry trends and market conditions to identify potential new suppliers or cost-effective alternatives, collaborates with procurement to develop sourcing strategies for key categories, including supplier selection criteria, negotiation tactics, and contract terms.

  • Finance Team Management
  • Financial Strategy: In partnership with the CFO and the Sr Director of FP&A, mentor and oversee the Finance Department staff, managing work allocation, and the building of an effective and efficient team dynamic.
  • Supervises Director of Payroll and Accounts Payable, Managing Assistant Controller and National Accounting team: 1) providing guidance to staff, 2) assigning work and establishing priorities; 3) providing on-the-job training and professional development opportunities; 4) providing ongoing performance feedback;  5) conducting formal performance planning and evaluation; and 6) making recommendations in hiring, termination and salary decisions.
  • Guide larger, cross-divisional teams outside of the direct span of control within the Finance department and organization overall.
  • Assist CFO with preparing and conducting performance reviews; making salary, hiring, and termination recommendations;  assigning work and establishing priorities; ensuring development and training of staff. 
  • Assist CFO in overall management of the Finance Department with the preparation of department meetings, communications, cross-functional opportunities, and professional growth within the department.
  • Help mentor a finance team. Motivate the team members, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.
  • Help lead special projects for the department as directed by the CFO.

  • Organizational Leadership
  • In partnership with the Senior Director FP&A and CFO, collaborate as the Senior Manager team to discuss financial issues and strategies for the organization.
  • Prepare financial reports as requested utilizing knowledge of the general ledger system and strong analytical skills. 
  • Makes regular presentations in partnership with the CFO to executive leadership, directors, chairs, and department heads on the organization’s financial reporting, position and financial risks. Attends meetings as directed by/in place of the CFO.
  • Work closely with the Finance Committees: Audit Committee, Finance and Risk Committee (FinCom), Investment Committee (IC) and Investment Advisory Committee’s (IAC) to fulfill their respective charges. 
  • Oversee the preparation and communication of monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements to leadership and other departments, plus FinCom and Board of Directors.
  • Ensure timeliness and accuracy of financial and management reporting data for Sierra Club Foundation, Investors, and Donors, as needed and directed by the CFO.
  • Help lead special projects for organizational leadership and directors as directed by the CFO.
  • Serves as a corporate officer.


The successful candidate must have the following skills and experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance/Accounting or a related field. 
  • 10-12 years experience in accounting and financial analysis, with 6-8 years in a supervisory capacity.
  • Thorough understanding of nonprofit accounting and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Communication and Relationship Building: Effective communication skills are essential for the Senior Director of Finance Operations to present financial information clearly and concisely to non-financial stakeholders. They should also be able to build strong relationships with external partners, auditors, and donors.
  • Technology Proficiency: familiar with financial management software, reporting tools, and data analysis systems. They should be able to leverage technology to streamline financial processes, enhance reporting accuracy, and improve efficiency.
  • Compliance and Risk Management: With substantial funds at stake, the Senior Director of Finance Operations should thoroughly understand compliance requirements for non-profit organizations, including IRS regulations and legal obligations. They should also be adept at risk assessment and mitigation strategies to safeguard the organization's financial health.
  • Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical skills are crucial for the Senior Director of Finance Operations to assess financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions. They should also have exceptional problem-solving abilities to address complex financial issues and develop effective solutions.
  • Strategic Thinking: Think strategically and provide financial guidance aligned with the organization's mission and strategic goals. This includes forecasting financial needs, identifying growth opportunities, and mitigating financial risks.
  • Ethical Conduct: Given the fiduciary responsibilities of managing substantial funds, the Senior Director of Finance Operations must uphold the highest ethical standards and demonstrate integrity in financial decision-making and reporting.
  • Adaptability and Change Management: A strong Senior Director of Finance Operations should be adaptable to changing financial environments, including shifts in funding, regulatory changes, and emerging financial trends. They should be capable of effectively managing change within the finance department and guiding the organization through transitions.
  • Continuous Learning: The Senior Director of Finance Operations should commit to ongoing professional development and stay up to date with evolving financial regulations, best practices, and industry trends. This includes pursuing relevant certifications and participating in professional networks or associations.
  • Leading on Equity. You model effective equity analysis and practice and have a track record of operationalizing equity, and have embedded justice and equity throughout team/department policies, structures, culture, and programs.
  • Committed to evolution.You are committed to continuously deepening and evolving your own understanding of systems of oppression through study, openness, and humility. And you easily recognize your own relationship to privilege and power, examining and shifting your behaviors as appropriate.
  • Uplifting and additive. You see mistakes as opportunities for growth; problems as catalysts for solutions, and inspire others along the journey. You carry a constructive approach, can-do attitude, a sense of humor, and authentic kindness wherever you go.


The strongest candidates will also demonstrate the following experience, skills and competencies:
  • Certified Public Accountant and/or MBA designation preferred
  • Demonstrated experience working at a non-profit with a mix of c(3) & c(4) funding sources.
  • Extensive experience with and knowledge of Netsuite and Adaptive Planning


$230,000 - $250,000 a year
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $230,000 - $250,000 annually.

The Sierra Club offers a competitive salary package commensurate with skills and experience plus excellent benefits that include medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a retirement savings 401(k) plan. 

This is a category 2, exempt, non-represented, confidential, supervisory position.

Sierra Club values the expertise and talents of foreign nationals. Sierra Club sponsors both nonimmigrant and immigrant visas when certain criteria are met, based on immigration laws and organizational needs. Such sponsorship is at the discretion of the Department Head and Sierra Club People Department in consultation with the employee’s manager. The Sierra Club cannot guarantee the approval of a visa petition. The Sierra Club is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce belonging.

To Apply

The Sierra Club provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all staff members. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, lived experience and skills. The Sierra Club does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration status, socioeconomic status, ancestry, age, size, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, familial status, veteran status, disability, AIDS/HIV status, medical condition, prior conviction, arrest history, traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles, or any other characteristic protected by law.


The Sierra Club values applicants who are people that identify as Black, Indigenous, and other minoritized groups; women; queer, transgender, gender non-conforming, and gender fluid people.

Explore, enjoy and protect the planet.

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What You Should Know About Senior Director of Finance Operations, Sierra Club

As the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club, you will play a pivotal role in steering the financial strategy of an organization dedicated to environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice. This remote position supports the Chief Financial Officer and supervises key personnel such as the Director of Payroll & Accounts Payable and the Managing Assistant Controller. Your mission will center around maintaining the financial health of the Sierra Club by managing daily accounting operations and ensuring compliance with GAAP principles. In addition, you’ll oversee financial reports and support audit processes while working to streamline operations and enhance financial transparency. With experience in nonprofit accounting, you’ll identify cost-saving opportunities and foster strong relationships with external partners, ensuring that our financial practices reflect our core mission of sustainability and equity. You'll lead a collaborative finance team, guiding them with mentorship and fostering a dynamic work environment. Your expertise in strategic thinking and risk management will be critical as you participate in organizational leadership and present financial updates to stakeholders. The Sierra Club believes in the interconnectedness of our planet and humanity, and as the Senior Director of Finance Operations, you will help drive our vision forward while managing substantial funds with integrity and ethical responsibility. If you're passionate about using your financial expertise to make a tangible difference in the fight for a thriving planet, this is the role for you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Director of Finance Operations Role at Sierra Club
What are the primary responsibilities of the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club?

The Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club is tasked with overseeing daily accounting operations, ensuring compliance with GAAP, managing financial reporting, and supervising a range of financial staff. This role involves strategic analysis of financial data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and facilitating audit processes. Additionally, you will maintain relationships with external stakeholders and help guide the finance team to ensure overall financial health.

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What qualifications are required for the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club?

To excel as the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting, along with 10-12 years of experience in financial analysis and accounting. A minimum of 6-8 years in a supervisory role is also essential. Knowledge of nonprofit accounting practices is crucial, and certifications such as CPA or MBA would be preferred.

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How can the Senior Director of Finance Operations contribute to the mission of the Sierra Club?

The Senior Director of Finance Operations can significantly contribute to the Sierra Club's mission by ensuring that financial strategies align with environmental and social justice objectives. By efficiently managing resources, supervising financial compliance, and optimizing operational processes, this role helps support the organization's fight against climate change and inequality, thereby fostering a sustainable future.

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What skills are necessary for the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club?

Key skills for the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club include strong analytical abilities, strategic thinking, effective communication, and the capacity for relationship building. This role also requires proficiency in financial management software and a solid understanding of compliance and risk management specific to nonprofit organizations.

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What is the salary range for the Senior Director of Finance Operations position at the Sierra Club?

The salary range for the Senior Director of Finance Operations at the Sierra Club falls between $230,000 to $250,000 annually. This competitive package also includes excellent benefits like medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan, reflecting the organization's commitment to valuing its employees.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Director of Finance Operations
How do you ensure compliance with GAAP principles in financial operations?

When asked about compliance with GAAP, it's essential to discuss specific processes you implement, such as regular audits, staff training, and maintaining updated financial policies. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully navigated compliance challenges, showcasing your knowledge of nonprofit accounting.

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Can you describe your experience with financial reporting and presenting to stakeholders?

In your response, outline your relevant experience in preparing financial reports for various stakeholder groups, including board members and executive leadership. Discuss the tools you utilize for reporting and how you make complex financial information accessible and understandable.

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What strategies do you use for cash flow management in a nonprofit setting?

Discuss your approach to cash flow management, highlighting methods for forecasting cash flow, monitoring expenditures, and identifying potential funding sources. Share examples of how you've improved cash flow in previous roles.

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How do you build effective teams within the Finance Department?

Emphasize your leadership style and how you encourage collaboration and professional development within your finance team. Talk about specific initiatives you've led to foster a positive working environment and enhance team performance.

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What is your approach to financial analysis and identifying areas for cost savings?

Describe your analytical process for reviewing financial data, using examples of tools or methodologies you've employed. It’s also beneficial to demonstrate how you’ve successfully implemented cost-saving measures in past positions.

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Can you discuss your experience with audit processes and managing external auditors?

Provide a detailed overview of your experience overseeing audit processes, including your role in preparing documentation and collaborating with auditors. Mention any specific successful outcomes achieved through your management during audits.

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How do you handle challenging financial situations or risks?

Share examples of challenges you've faced and the risk assessment strategies you utilized to address them. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you've turned potential setbacks into opportunities for growth.

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How do you communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders?

Talk about the techniques you use to break down complex financial concepts into simple terms. Sharing examples from previous experiences where your communication skills successfully informed decision-making among non-financial stakeholders can be helpful.

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What experience do you have with financial management software, specifically Netsuite and Adaptive Planning?

Detail your familiarity with specific financial management software, emphasizing your hands-on experience with Netsuite and Adaptive Planning. Discuss how you’ve leveraged these tools to enhance reporting accuracy and streamline financial processes.

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How do you stay updated with changes in financial regulations and best practices?

You can elaborate on your commitment to continuous learning, such as attending industry conferences, pursuing certifications, and following financial news. Share examples of how you’ve adapted your practices based on new regulations or trending best practices.

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DATE POSTED
March 16, 2025

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