Director of Finance

About the Opportunity

The Director of Finance at Liberty Science Center (LSC) will play a pivotal role in steering the financial strategy and operations of a $30+ million organization. This leadership position is responsible for overseeing all financial activities, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and risk management, to ensure the company’s financial health and sustainability. The Director of Finance will collaborate closely with executive leadership to develop long-term financial plans that support strategic business objectives and drive growth. This role demands a proactive approach to identifying financial opportunities and challenges, implementing best practices, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Ultimately, the Director of Finance will provide critical insights and guidance that enable informed decision-making and foster a culture of financial discipline across the organization.

The Director of Finance will report to the EVP & CFO. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: To be considered for this role, you must submit a cover letter that is tailored to this specific role and organization. Keep in mind that you'll want to stand out!

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Director of Finance will vary day-to-day and include a wide variety of projects based on the demands of the business; while the list below is not exhuastice, it does represent the essential functions of the role.

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive financial strategies aligned with the company’s goals
• Manage the preparation and analysis of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports
• Oversee budgeting processes, including forecasting, variance analysis, and cost control measures
• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, standards, and internal policies
• Collaborate with senior leaders to evaluate growth opportunities, capital expenditures, and financial risks
• Direct and mentor the finance team to enhance performance, professional development, and operational efficiency
• Coordinate audits and liaise with external auditors to ensure accuracy and transparency in financial reporting
• Implement and maintain robust financial systems and controls to safeguard company assets
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic planning and business development initiatives
• Monitor cash flow, liquidity, and capital structure to optimize financial stability and growth potential

Preferred Qualifications

• 6+ years of progressive experience in finance roles, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration; Master’s degree is a huge plus
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or equivalent certification a plus
• Proven track record of leading finance teams through periods of growth or transformation
• Proficiency in financial software and advanced Excel skills
• Familiarity with ERP accounting,finance systems such as Sage Intacct, SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms
• Strong knowledge of financial regulations, accounting principles (GAAP), and corporate finance

Classification & Schedule
 
This is a regular full-time, exempt position. A flexible work schedule or additional work hours may be necessary, to meet the requirements of this job position, which could encompass early morning, evening, or weekend work based on business needs. The Director would work primarily onsite at Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, NJ, but after the training period (~90 days) is over would be able to work remote 1-2 days per week.

Physical & Environmental Demands

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that a Director of Finance would encounter while performing the essential functions of the job in a common office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be in a standard open office environment with moderate noise level and will be subject to sitting/standing at a laptop/desktop for long periods of time while visually assessing information. This role is frequently required to receive oral and written instructions in English and to clearly communicate in English in person, over the telephone, and via texting and email and while delivering business presentations to a group. 

LSC may make reasonable accommodations to enable qualified individuals with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job to the extent that LSC may do so without undue hardship.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation for this position is commensurate with abilities, education, certifications, and experience but is expected to be in the range of $115,000-$135,000. This position is also benefits and bonus eligible. In addition to compensation for salary, the Director will receive compensation in the form of generous benefits, including, but not limited to:

• Medical, dental, life, vision, and pet insurance

• 403(b) defined contribution retirement plan with an outstanding employer match

• Considerable paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays

• Long-term disability coverage

• Flexible spending accounts (pre-tax income for eligible health and/or dependent care expenses)

• Commuter benefits (pre-tax income for parking or mass transit expenses)

• Free parking

• 25% discount in the on-site store

• 15% discount in on-site cafeteria

• LSC family membership

Liberty Science Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment with the best qualified employees.