Department: Finance

Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

FLSA Status: Salaried/Exempt

Salary: $85,000-$95,000 / per year

Location: Onsite – Chattanooga, TN

Summary

The Director of Finance at the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) plays a pivotal role in managing the financial operations of the organization. This position oversees accounting functions, financial reporting, budgeting, grants management, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The Director of Finance provides leadership to the Finance Department, supports strategic decision-making, and safeguards the Authority’s financial stability.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned that are in keeping with the goals and objectives of CARTA.

Financial Reporting & Compliance:
- Prepare and review financial statements, reports, and reconciliations in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) regulations.
- Lead the monthly close process including the review and preparation of journal entries, account reconciliations and supporting documentation.
- Prepare the balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash flows and perform budget versus actual comparisons.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulatory requirements, including FTA regulations.
Budgeting & Forecasting:
- Assist in the development of the annual budget and long-term financial plans, including operating and capital budgets.
- Maintain and update cash flow projections.
- Analyze budget variances and provide actionable insights to management.
Grant Management:
- Monitor and manage grant funding, ensuring accurate accounting and compliance with grant requirements.
- Prepare financial reports for grantors and participate in grant audits as needed.
Accounts Payable/Receivable:
- Oversee the accounts payable and receivable processes, ensuring timely and accurate processing of transactions.
- Reconcile accounts and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
Payroll:
- Oversee the payroll processes, ensuring timely and accurate transactions.
- Acts as backup to the Payroll Administrator.
Internal Controls & Auditing:
- Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.
- Coordinate with external auditors during the annual audit and implement audit recommendations.
Team Leadership:
- Supervise and mentor junior accounting staff, providing guidance and fostering professional development.
- Collaborate with other departments to support overall financial management and reporting needs.
System Management:
- Maintain and improve accounting systems and processes, ensuring they meet the organization’s evolving needs.
- Oversee the implementation of financial software upgrades and training for the finance team.
Automation and process improvement
- Identify and pursue automation and process improvement initiatives to optimize the finance and accounting function of the organization, reduce costs, accelerate time to close, and reduce process errors.

Qualifications

Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) certification preferred.
Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years of accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role, preferably in a public transit agency or governmental organization.
- Experience with grant accounting and FTA regulations is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong understanding of GAAP, GASB, and other relevant accounting standards.
- Proficient in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
- Proficient in financial reporting, general ledger, and payroll systems. NetSuite experience strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of data analysis tools such as PowerBI and NetSuite reporting capabilities strongly preferred.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Work Location & Compensation
- Location: On-site at CARTA headquarters in Chattanooga, TN
- Salary Range: $85,000-$95,000 annually
- Comprehensive benefits package

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: CARTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority

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Director of Finance