STEM From Dance - Chief Finance and Operations Officer

For over a decade, STEM From Dance (SFD) has been committed to empowering girls of color with the skills, experiences, and confidence to pursue careers in STEM — all through the power of dance. Our mission is rooted in addressing the systemic underrepresentation of women of color in STEM fields. Through our innovative programs and steadfast community support, girls cultivate their creativity, fortify their confidence, and leverage technology to pioneer bold innovations.

Our vision is ambitious: to impact the lives of one million girls, guiding them toward thriving careers in STEM. Already on the path to national and global recognition, SFD is at the forefront of integrating dance with STEM education, driving the charge toward greater representation of women of color in STEM. We envision a future where the STEM landscape is diverse, equitable, and inclusive, where women of color not only participate but lead and innovate.

Built on a foundation of a bold mission, a strategic growth plan, and unwavering core values, STEM From Dance is poised to change the face of STEM. As we embark on this journey, we are seeking an experienced strategic leader with a passion for our mission with a proven track record of strong financial and operational leadership to serve as our Chief Finance and Operations Officer (CFOO).

As the Chief Finance and Operating Officer at STEM From Dance, you will play a pivotal role in providing strategic financial oversight and operational leadership to support the organization's growth trajectory. Your responsibilities encompass a broad spectrum, including financial management, human resources, technology, and infrastructure. With a keen eye on fiscal stewardship and operational efficiency, you will guide the organization through its scaling and growth phases, ensuring that financial resources are maximized and aligned with strategic priorities. Your expertise will be instrumental in maintaining the organization's financial health, optimizing operational processes, and building a robust infrastructure to support STEM From Dance's mission and expansion efforts.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Organizational Leadership (15%)
• Serve as a senior leader in the organization; you will provide leadership, thought partnership, and support to ensure the success of STEM From Dance.
• In partnership with the staff, Board of Directors, and stakeholders, oversee accurate financial, HR, and technology systems that will enable the continued success of the organization.
• Financial Management (50%)
• Oversee the organization’s financial strategy and our budget of $3.5M with expected sustainable growth yearly.
• Direct short and long-term financial planning, forecasting, budgeting, and management and grant compliance.
• Manage, analyze, and communicate financial reports, cash flow, forecasts, project/program and grants accounting, and department budgets in an accurate and timely manner.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and implementing effective internal controls.
• Oversee the annual audit process with external auditors and the Board of Directors.
• Lead the annual budgeting and planning process in conjunction with the CEO, Deputy Director, and Board of Directors.
• Operations Management (25%)
• In partnership with the CEO, leadership team, and Board, ensure efficiency and effectiveness of operations and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Direct technology strategy and infrastructure development, leveraging systems and tools to enhance operational efficiency, data management, and program delivery.
• Oversee compliance and risk management, including internal and external audits, incident and insurance management, and ensure SFD manages risks appropriately.
• People Management (10%)
• Oversee STEM From Dance’s human resources function, including managing the PEO and other HR systems.
• Advise on and mediate employee relations issues.
• Refine and support implementation of all necessary talent policies and procedures.
• Update, improve, and implement equitable talent practices, including recruitment, hiring, professional development, and performance management
• Support oversight of the compensation and benefits program for the organization to meet individual needs.

Requirements

To fulfill these responsibilities, you are the following:

• You are deeply aligned with STEM From Dance's mission and values, demonstrating a genuine passion for empowering girls of color in STEM.
• You approach challenges with an expansive, strategic, and growth-oriented mindset, consistently seeking innovative solutions and strategic opportunities for organizational advancement and scalability.
• You have a proven track record of strong financial and operational leadership at organizations with multi-million budgets and strategic thinking, with experience supporting organizations experiencing significant growth.
• You possess a strong understanding of nonprofit accounting principles, financial planning and analysis, budget management, and compliance requirements.
• You are highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• You have demonstrated success in achieving organizational goals and fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
• You resonate with STEM From Dance’s work philosophy.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Related advanced degree preferred; Background in finance and accounting required.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of relevant professional experience in financial management and operations leadership, preferably in the nonprofit sector or a mission-driven organization.

Benefits

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

SALARY: This position offers a competitive salary range for this role: $110,000 - 140,000

BENEFITS: STEM From Dance office is a competitive total compensation package inclusive of benefits such as health insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, generous paid time off, flexible schedules, and extensive learning opportunities. More details can be provided upon request.

TRAVEL: There will be an expectation of 20% travel, including travel to New York City, partner sites, and other key events.

LOCATION: This position can be remote, with a preference for candidates located on the East Coast, particularly in the New York City area. Monthly in-person meetings at our New York City office are expected.