Job Description

Reports to : President & Chief Executive Officer

Overview :

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) oversees financial operations for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO), its affiliates Music and Event Management, Inc. (MEMI), EVT Management, LLC (EVT), and strategic partners, including the May Festival and nonprofit arts organizations.

This role ensures disciplined financial management, transparency, and compliance while aligning with board-approved policies. The CFO leads budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and financial analysis to support long-term sustainability. Additionally, they oversee IT and administrative infrastructure to maintain a high-performance environment. Working closely with the President & CEO and Board, the CFO develops financial strategies that align with the organization's mission and goals.

Key Responsibilities :

Financial Analysis & Decision Support

• Provide clear financial analyses to inform key institutional decisions.
• Assess financial impact of programs and initiatives, including contribution margin analysis.
• Communicate findings to support growth, funding opportunities, and strategic planning.

Budgeting & Financial Projections

• Develop and monitor the annual operating budget, ensuring timely preparation and variance tracking.
• Maintain multi-year financial projections including monitoring cash flow needs and highlight financial risks.

Reporting & Compliance

• Oversee preparation of financial reports (e.g., IRS Form 990, audit) and grant financials.
• Support fundraising efforts with financial data and maintain compliance with accounting standards.

Board & Investment Oversight

• Provide leadership to Finance, Investment, and Audit committees, ensuring informed decisionmaking.
• Monitor endowment performance, implement Investment Committee actions, and report to the Board.
• Oversee key financial vendors, insurance programs, and IT functions to ensure efficiency and protection of assets.
• Support HR in fostering a high-performance culture and ensure smooth administrative operations.

Affiliates & External Relations

• Support financial and strategic needs of CSO affiliates (MEMI, EVT, May Festival, etc.).
• Represent the organization at key events and performances.

Strategic Leadership

• Contribute to the organization’s strategic vision to be the most relevant orchestra in America.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The Person : Qualifications :

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in finance or accounting, including at least three years with direct supervision of accounting personnel, preferably in a nonprofit performing arts organization or facility manager.
• Experienced and knowledgeable of nonprofit audit best practices is required, financial leadership experience gained in the private sector could be beneficial.
• A successful track record of providing financial and accounting management to a diverse range of nonprofit organizations of various size and scope preferred.
• Prior experience working with and communicating effectively with a Board of Directors comprised of members who have a varying degree of investment and financial acumen.
• Experienced working as a strategic finance thought partner to senior management teams in an organization with multiple business units; assisting others with financial acumen.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities :

• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to establish rapport and cultivate relationships across all levels and component parts of the organization.
• Strong communication skills, a dynamic speaker and presenter.
• Leads and manages teams with empathy, a high standard of excellence, accountability, and inclusivity, allowing for consensus building and recognition of teamwork.
• The ability to work closely with the President & CEO to offer creative and entrepreneurial, yet practical, ideas to achieve the strategic direction of the CSO with a deep understanding and commitment to the organizational mission.

Education :

• MBA, Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Management, or combination of professional work experience, relevant skills and education.
• CPA certification preferred

Compensation :

• The CSO offers a robust and thoughtfully designed benefits package that highlights its commitment to the well-being of its employees. Key offerings include Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, all supported by a substantial employer contribution to Health Savings Accounts. Employees also have the opportunity to invest in their future through a 401(k) plan with employer contributions. Additionally, the CSO offers wellness support through supportive family-friendly policies and an Employee Assistance Program, giving all employees access to valuable resources for managing life’s challenges. This well-rounded benefits package reflects the organization’s continued dedication to promoting the health, financial stability, and overall wellness of both employees and their families.
• Total compensation is $250,000 - $325,000 per year, depending on experience.

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Chief Financial Officer • Cincinnati, OH, United States

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