Director, Finance & Accounting

Summary

When people look for the best faith-formation resources, they turn to Ascension. The Director of Finance & Accounting ensures the integrity of Ascension’s accounting operations and provides strategic financial insights that support our mission.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director leads Ascension's accounting and finance functions, including financial reporting, internal controls, budgeting, forecasting, and cash management.

Duties & Responsibilities

Accounting Leadership & Operations

Lead and develop the Accounting team, establishing clear responsibilities and performance standards, regularly reviewing the team's work, and resolving operational issues.

Own the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of accounting operations, including the general ledger, monthly close, reconciliations, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.

Maintain strong accounting controls, including segregation of duties, banking security, transaction approvals, and independent verification of payments.

Establish and enforce accounting policies and procedures, identify and address financial risks and control weaknesses, and ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, income tax-basis reporting requirements, GAAP, and regulatory requirements.

Coordinate with external accountants on reviewed financial statements, tax filings, and compliance requirements.

Lead improvements to accounting systems, automation, and reporting to support Ascension's growth.

Financial Strategy, Plannning, & Reporting

Deliver accurate and timely monthly financial statements, fully loaded business-unit P&Ls, and meaningful analysis of financial performance.

Oversee cash management, banking relationships, and insurance coverage.

Lead annual budgeting and maintain ongoing financial forecasts, including revenue, profitability, expenses, and cash flow.

Help the CEO and department leaders understand financial performance, budget-to-actual results, and financial implications of decision-making.

Advise the CEO and leadership team on multi-year financial planning, investments, resource allocation, and strategic initiatives.

Develop financial models and reporting that provide visibility into profitability across business units, products, and channels.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting and financial management experience, including significant responsibility for accounting operations and financial reporting.
• Demonstrated experience serving as a Controller, Director of Accounting, Director of Finance, or comparable senior financial leadership.
• CPA designation preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Shopify preferred.
• Experience with inventory-intensive businesses, manufacturing, publishing, or distribution preferred.
• Occasional travel to Ascension’s headquarters required.
• Exemplify and live Ascension’s core values of humility, passion, and integrity.