Interim Chief Financial Officer

We are looking for an accomplished Interim Chief Financial Officer to provide steady executive leadership for a mission-driven organization in Boston, Massachusetts. This Long-term Contract position is ideal for a senior finance executive who can step in quickly, strengthen operations, and serve as a trusted advisor to leadership and the board. The role requires a highly visible, hands-on leader who can guide financial strategy while supporting broader institutional functions and improving organizational effectiveness.

Responsibilities:

• Provide immediate executive oversight of the finance function, establishing stability, direction, and strong decision support during a period of transition.
• Partner closely with senior leadership, board members, and trustees by delivering clear financial insights, recommendations, and presentations that support strategic planning and accountability.
• Lead and mentor the existing team, offering hands-on guidance, reinforcing priorities, and helping staff succeed while managing an expanded scope of responsibilities.
• Evaluate financial and operational processes across the institution, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement practical best practices that enhance performance.
• Oversee core fiscal activities such as cash flow management, capital planning, month-end close, and accurate financial reporting.
• Collaborate across departments including technology, administration, security, and student-facing areas to align financial leadership with broader organizational needs.
• Support operational modernization efforts and other organizational improvement initiatives by helping teams navigate change with structure and clarity.
• Ensure effective board reporting through well-prepared analyses, executive summaries, and timely updates on financial performance and institutional priorities.
• 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in finance, operations, or executive management, including service in a CFO or equivalent senior leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated ability to enter complex organizations quickly, assess needs, and deliver effective leadership with minimal onboarding.
• Strong background in financial reporting, board reporting, board presentations, cash flow analysis, capital management, and month-end close oversight.
• Experience leading in higher education, nonprofit, or other mission-focused environments is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of nonprofit accounting and fund accounting principles, ideally within educational institutions or similarly structured organizations.
• Proven success working directly with CEOs, trustees, or governing boards on strategy, performance, and institutional accountability.
• Comfortable serving as an onsite leader in Boston, Massachusetts, with a visible presence across the organization.