Job Opportunities API

The Duke Ellington School of the Arts and The Ellington Fund are premier, mission-driven 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to academic excellence and artistic achievement. Serving as a nationally recognized model for arts education, the organizations operate in a dynamic, creative environment that requires both operational rigor and visionary leadership. POSITION SUMMARY The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and a strategic partner to the Principal/Head of Schools and Board of Directors. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for shaping financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability, and strengthening organizational infrastructure. The CFO will oversee all financial operations across two affiliated nonprofit entities and play a critical role in aligning financial stewardship with institutional growth, innovation, and mission delivery. This role is ideally suited for a forward-thinking financial executive who brings both technical excellence and strategic insight within complex, mission-driven environments. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Provide enterprise-wide financial leadership and strategic direction • Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership and the Board Finance Committee • Lead long-range financial planning, scenario modeling, and capital strategy • Oversee financial reporting, audits, tax compliance, and investment oversight • Direct the annual budgeting process and multi-year forecasting • Strengthen internal controls, financial systems, and risk management frameworks • Ensure compliance with all nonprofit regulatory and reporting requirements • Partner cross-functionally to support programmatic and fundraising initiatives • Lead and develop a high-performing finance function CANDIDATE PROFILE The ideal candidate is a seasoned financial executive with a strong track record of leadership in nonprofit, education, or similarly complex organizations. The CFO must be both strategic and hands-on, with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights. Key attributes include: • Executive presence and ability to influence at the Board level • Deep expertise in nonprofit finance, compliance, and governance • Strategic thinker with strong operational execution skills • Collaborative leader with a commitment to mission-driven work • High level of integrity, discretion, and professional judgment QUALIFICATIONS • 12–15+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, including executive-level roles • CPA strongly preferred (or equivalent advanced financial credential) • Demonstrated experience working with Boards and Finance Committees • Expertise in financial planning & analysis, audit oversight, and internal controls • Experience managing complex budgets and multiple funding streams • Familiarity with nonprofit accounting systems (Financial Edge preferred) COMPENSATION & BENEFITS (BENCHMARKED) The anticipated compensation for this role is competitive and commensurate with experience , aligned with national benchmarks for nonprofit CFO positions within similarly sized and complex organizations in the education and arts sector. • Base Salary Range: $170,000 – $185,000 • Potential Additional Considerations: • Performance-based incentive or retention bonus (where applicable) • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits • Retirement plan participation • Paid time off and institutional holidays The final compensation package will be determined based on experience, credentials, and demonstrated impact in comparable leadership roles. SEARCH & SELECTION PROCESS This search is being conducted to identify a transformational financial leader capable of supporting the next phase of organizational growth and sustainability. Candidates should be prepared to engage in a multi-stage interview process, including interaction with executive leadership and members of the Board. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and a cover letter detailing their leadership experience and alignment with the mission. Equal Opportunity Employer Duke Ellington School of the Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.