Finance and Operations Manager

About First Chance for Children First Chance for Children is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening children and families through early childhood programs, parent education, basic\-needs resources, and meaningful community connections. We are a small, mission\-driven organization where every member of our team plays an important role in helping children and families thrive. We are seeking a Finance \& Operations Manager who is detail\-oriented, dependable, adaptable, and comfortable taking on the financial systems that keep our organization strong. The right person will bring solid financial skills, sound judgment, a commitment to confidentiality, and a willingness to learn and grow with our organization. We recognize that great candidates do not always check every box. If you believe your experience and skills would allow you to be successful in this position, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every qualification listed. Position Summary The Finance \& Operations Manager oversees the day\-to\-day financial operations of First Chance for Children and helps ensure the organization remains financially sound, accountable, and compliant. Primary responsibilities include accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, payroll, grant and contract financial management, accounts payable and receivable, audit preparation, and internal financial controls. The position also provides administrative support for human resources, employee onboarding, benefits, purchasing, board and committee reporting, and other organizational operations. The Finance \& Operations Manager reports to the Executive Director and works closely with staff, the Board of Directors and Finance Committee, auditors, funders, vendors, and community partners. Financial Management The Finance \& Operations Manager will: Maintain accurate and timely financial records. Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and statements. Provide understandable financial information to the Executive Director, Finance Committee, and Board of Directors. Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable. Maintain financial transactions and records using QuickBooks. Monitor organizational cash flow and fund balances. Track restricted and unrestricted funding and program and grant expenditures. Manage financial accounting and reporting requirements for grants, contracts, programs, and projects. Prepare grant and program invoices, reimbursement requests, and supporting financial documentation. Work with the Executive Director to develop the organization's annual budget. Monitor actual financial performance against approved budgets and identify significant variances. Keep the Executive Director informed regarding the organization's financial position, cash flow, grant balances, and emerging financial needs or concerns. Prepare financial reports for Finance Committee and Board meetings and participate in Finance Committee meetings. Coordinate the annual audit and serve as a primary liaison with external auditors in partnership with the Executive Director and Finance Committee. Maintain and help strengthen internal financial controls, policies, procedures, and documentation. Support compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and applicable nonprofit financial requirements. Maintain organized financial and administrative records. Coordinate purchasing and payment of organizational expenses as needed. Payroll \& Benefits Administration Responsibilities include: Manage and process payroll accurately and on schedule. Maintain employee payroll records, deductions, benefits, leave information, and related documentation. Process payroll changes involving compensation, tax withholding, insurance, benefits, and other deductions. Reconcile payroll accounts and resolve discrepancies. Prepare payroll\-related reports and documentation. Coordinate required federal and state payroll filings and payments. Coordinate annual W\-2 and 1099 preparation and distribution. Assist with administration of employee benefits. Maintain confidentiality of employee payroll and personnel information. Stay informed of applicable payroll and employment requirements and communicate needed changes to the Executive Director. Human Resources \& Organizational Operations The Finance \& Operations Manager will also support the organization by: Coordinating administrative aspects of employee onboarding and offboarding. Maintaining employee personnel records and required documentation. Assisting with employee benefits administration and employee information changes. Supporting the Executive Director with HR\-related administrative functions. Maintaining appropriate documentation related to workers' compensation, unemployment, benefits, and other employment matters. Assisting with implementation and maintenance of organizational policies and procedures. Supporting purchasing, vendors, contracts, insurance, and other administrative systems as assigned. Providing administrative and financial support for Board and committee activities. Assisting with fundraising events, special events, and other organizational activities when needed. Participating as a collaborative member of the First Chance for Children team. Performing other duties as assigned in support of the organization's mission and operations. What We're Looking For Successful candidates may come to this position through a variety of professional and educational paths. We are looking for someone who brings a combination of experience, knowledge, and demonstrated ability in areas such as: Financial management, accounting, bookkeeping, business administration, or related work. Understanding of core accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliations, budgeting, and financial reporting. Experience with or the ability to quickly learn QuickBooks and other financial and administrative systems. Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Ability to organize multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines. Strong problem\-solving skills and sound judgment. Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive financial and employee information. Ability to communicate financial information clearly to individuals who may not have a financial background. Ability to work independently while also collaborating with a small team. Willingness to ask questions, learn new systems, and continually improve organizational processes. Experience That Would Be Helpful Experience in any of the following areas is beneficial but not required for consideration: Nonprofit accounting or financial management. Fund accounting or restricted\-fund management. Grant and contract invoicing, reimbursement, and financial reporting. Payroll and benefits administration. Human resources administration. Audit preparation or coordination. GAAP and internal financial controls. QuickBooks or similar accounting software. Working with a nonprofit Board of Directors or Finance Committee. A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, nonprofit management, or a related field is welcomed; however, relevant professional experience, demonstrated skills, training, and other education will also be considered. CPA certification is not required. Who Might Be a Great Fit? This position could be a great opportunity for someone who has worked as an accountant, bookkeeper, finance coordinator, payroll specialist, business or office manager, nonprofit administrator, assistant finance manager, or in another position involving significant financial responsibility and is ready to take the next step professionally. We are especially interested in someone who: Take pride in getting the details right. Can see both the numbers and the bigger picture. Is comfortable taking ownership of responsibility while knowing when to ask for help. Enjoy creating organized systems and improving processes. Can explain financial information in plain language. Is trustworthy and understands the importance of confidentiality. Is flexible and willing to pitch in when needed. Enjoy being part of a small, collaborative team. Wants their professional skills to contribute to meaningful work for children and families. Work Environment This is a full\-time position based in Columbia, Missouri. First Chance for Children is open to a hybrid work arrangement following successful onboarding, with regular in\-office availability required for financial operations, meetings, staff support, organizational activities, and responsibilities that require an on\-site presence. Some occasional participation in evening or special events may be required. Compensation \& Benefits Anticipated salary range: $50,000–$60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, skills, and qualifications. First Chance for Children offers health insurance options, generous PTO, paid holidays, retirement, flexible scheduling, and a friendly work environment. To Apply Please submit a resume and brief cover letter describing your relevant experience and why you are interested in joining First Chance for Children. Don't meet every qualification? We still encourage you to apply. We value transferable skills, relevant experience, a willingness to learn, and candidates who believe they can successfully fulfill the responsibilities of this position. Overview Pay: $50,000\.00 \- $60,000\.00 per year Benefits: Flexible schedule Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Professional development assistance * Retirement plan Work Location: Hybrid remote in Columbia, MO 65201