Associate Director of Finance

---

Job description

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Inc. (the Aquarium) seeks an Associate Director of Finance to manage and execute financial operations and controls during a uniquely important time in its 33 year history. In addition to addressing the immediate financial challenges due to COVID-19, the Aquarium is currently undertaking major capital projects, and further is envisioning significant expansion of its programs.

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND

The Aquarium's mission is to inspire people of all ages to appreciate and protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem and the global environment through living exhibits, marine science, and environmental education. For 33 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium hosts about 450,000 guests annually. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Aquarium has an annual operating budget of $13 million, of which approximately $10 million is through admissions and other earned income, and the remainder through charitable donations and grants.

Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to more than 7,000 animals and 300 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its nationally recognized and award-winning education programs introduce approximately 80,000 students and children to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 60 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to nearly 300 volunteers who contribute 28,000 hours annually.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Primary Responsibilities

The Associate Director of Finance reports to, and works closely with, the Vice President of Finance, in managing business and financial strategies and practices to successfully fulfill the Aquarium's ambitious mission. The Associate Director of Finance will engage in financial reporting and oversight, implement financial policies and control systems for the Aquarium, and coordinate financial matters with other departments and programs of the organization, with primary responsibility for: (1) financial reporting and analysis, including month-end and year-end reviews, and alignment of actual-to-budgeted revenues and expenses; (2) implementing financial and accounting controls; and (3) assisting in the management of day-to-day financial operations and record keeping. The Associate Director of Finance will supervise the accounting staff of two.

Specific Responsibilities

General Management

1. Engage with other department heads in reporting and coordinating financial and accounting information.
2. Assist the Vice President of Finance in reporting to and working with the Finance Committee and Senior Leadership to analyze financials on a monthly basis.
3. Assist the Vice President of Finance with the annual budget preparation and grant reporting to private and public funders.

Accounting, Audit and Budget Management

1. Oversee the general ledger and perform a monthly reconciliation of G/L accounts to G/L cash expenses. Maintains the Chart of Accounts.
2. Prepare monthly P&L, Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Reports including actuals and forecasting.
3. Prepare and distribute departmental budget reports and prepare fixed asset analysis.
4. Analyze performance of department budget vs. actual in revenues and expenses.
5. Assist in the preparation for the annual independent audit, and act as a liaison with the independent accounting firm during the annual audit.
6. Review IRS Forms 5500 and 990, State tax filings, and other compliance documents as required.

Financial Controls and Procedures Oversight

1. Conduct internal reviews for control purposes in accordance with the organization's financial policies and procedures.

Qualifications

1. B.S. in Accounting required; C.P.A. preferred.
2. Minimum 4 years' relevant and progressive experience, including accounting and financial management.
3. Experience in a non-profit organization preferred, with knowledge of nonprofit accounting principles and standards, in particular revenue recognition, management of restricted funds, audit, and Form 990 filing.
4. Supervisory experience preferred.
5. Demonstrated expertise in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
6. Proficiency in Excel, Sage and other industry accounting software systems.
7. Knowledge and experience in financial reporting, account analysis, and grant accounting.
8. Meticulous about details, with good problem-solving skills, sound judgment and excellent interpersonal skills.
9. Commitment to the Aquarium's mission, with an appreciation for the important role that the Aquarium plays.
10. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

TO APPLY

Please send a cover letter, CV and salary requirements to Rosemarie Lombardi at , with Associate Director of Finance in the subject line of your email. Preference will be given to applications received before December 3, but the position will remain open until filled. No phone calls please.

The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.