Chief Financial Officer

Agency Description

One of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country, Community Partners in Action (CPA) was founded 150 years ago to champion criminal justice reform and advocate for preserving the dignity of those in and out of prison. Through our programs that include reentry and housing, youth initiatives, a nationally recognized Prison Arts Program, and holistic alternatives to incarceration, we provide a long-term impact that positively transforms individuals and society at large. Annually serving over 4,000 individuals throughout Connecticut, our work is possible due to partnerships with and support from individuals, government, private funders, organizations, and businesses.

CPA is guided by our BEDI (Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) culture. WE ARE COMMITTED to building and maintaining an inclusive, equitable workplace and COMPELLED to have a constructive impact on criminal justice reform in CT that ends racial inequities and ensures the humanity and dignity of those interacting with the system. Read more about our BEDI culture at https://cpa-ct.org/our-bedi-journey/

Position Summary

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for aligning Community Partners in Action’s (CPA) Fiscal Office with the organization’s strategic priorities. This role demands a high level of financial expertise within a non-profit setting, along with exceptional attention to detail and the capacity to navigate complex decisions. The ideal candidate is self‑motivated, adaptable, and skilled at building strong working relationships. They excel in fast‑paced environments, managing multiple projects at once, meeting deadlines, and effectively prioritizing competing demands. Success in this position requires strong emotional intelligence, sound decision‑making abilities, and advanced analytical, organizational, and computer skills.

The CFO will ensure compliance, accuracy, and timeliness in all financial operations while fostering credible relationships with internal and external stakeholders. This position supervises finance staff and collaborates closely with CPA leadership, including the Executive Director and Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise the Executive Director and Board of Directors on all financial matters including planning, risk management, and long‑term sustainability.
• Lead and manage CPA’s financial activities, ensuring accountability, compliance with GAAP, IRS regulations, non‑profit financial standards, state and federal laws, and adherence to the highest ethical standards.
• Serve as the primary contact for state and federal funders and external auditors regarding financial matters.
• Oversee all accounting operations including budgeting, planning, forecasting, general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, grants management, and financial reporting.
• Manage annual audit process, liaise with external auditors, and ensure timely filing of tax returns.
• Manage external agency bidding compliance and procurement processes.
• Manage cash flow to ensure operational stability and liquidity.
• Monitor budget performance and provide timely variance analysis and recommendations.
• Maintain robust internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Lead development of the annual operating budget and multi‑year financial plans.
• Collaborate with CPA leadership to develop and manage program budgets.
• Supervise and mentor finance team members, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Partner with Human Resources on insurance, benefits, and payroll matters.
• Lead Finance Committee meetings, engage members in developing short‑ and long‑term financial plans, and participate in all Board meetings, providing members with financial reports, forecasts, and analysis.
• Contribute to strategic planning and lead assigned initiatives, monitoring implementation as appropriate.
• Champion the agency’s mission and vision, driving continuous improvement and best practices.
• Balance prioritization, processes, and results with urgency and attention to detail.
• Cultivate strong internal and external partnerships, embracing belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Promote collaboration across organizational boundaries and adapt to changing priorities.

“An Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Aff …”

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field required; CPA or MBA strongly preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive financial leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Experience in non‑profit financial management and grant compliance are strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a complex budget of $25M+ and supervise staff.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, non‑profit accounting, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in financial software (Blackbaud preferred) and ERP systems; advanced excel skills required.
• Experience working with state and federal agencies preferred.
• Knowledge of payroll, pension and insurance administration preferred.