Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – Nonprofit Organization (Columbus, Ohio)
Salary Range: $140,000 – $180,000, commensurate with experience
Overview
A nonprofit organization in Columbus, Ohio is seeking an experienced Interim Chief Financial Officer to provide executive-level financial leadership during a period of transition. This role partners closely with the CEO, executive team, and Board of Trustees to ensure financial stability, transparency, and operational continuity while supporting the organization’s long-term success.
Position Purpose
The Interim CFO will be responsible for maintaining financial integrity, strengthening financial operations, and delivering clear, actionable insight to leadership and the Board. This individual will act as both a strategic advisor and a hands-on operator, ensuring the organization remains financially sound and well-positioned for the incoming permanent CFO.
Core Responsibilities
Stabilize and oversee all core financial operations, including cash management, financial close processes, internal controls, and reporting
Deliver accurate, timely, and decision-ready financial reporting to the CEO, executive leadership, and Board
Lead cash flow forecasting and liquidity management across multiple funding sources typical of nonprofit operations
Identify, assess, and mitigate financial and operational risks during the transition period
Partner with executive leadership as a trusted advisor, supporting strategic planning and organizational decision-making
Maintain and strengthen financial policies, procedures, and compliance standards
Ensure continuity and consistency in financial operations to avoid disruption
Prepare the organization for a smooth transition to a permanent CFO
Success Metrics
Consistent, accurate, and timely financial reporting with no unexpected variances
Stable cash position and reliable forecasting
Strengthened financial controls and operational discipline
Increased confidence among executive leadership and the Board
Clear documentation and transition readiness for incoming permanent CFO
Required Qualifications & Experience
Proven experience serving as an Interim or Transitional CFO, preferably within a nonprofit or mission-driven organization
Extensive background in cash management, liquidity forecasting, and multi-source funding environments (grants, donations, government funding, etc.)
Strong track record overseeing month-end and year-end close processes, financial reporting, and internal controls under pressure
Demonstrated experience working directly with CEOs and Boards of Directors or Finance Committees
Experience navigating organizational change, leadership transitions, or periods of financial uncertainty
Deep understanding of nonprofit financial operations, compliance, and governance is strongly preferred
Leadership Style & Approach
Calm, steady, and composed under pressure
Hands-on, practical, and solutions-oriented
Clear, direct communicator who can translate complex financial information into actionable insights
Comfortable identifying risks, presenting tradeoffs, and guiding executive decision-making
Collaborative partner who builds trust quickly across leadership and governance stakeholders
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal Interim CFO is a seasoned executive who brings structure, clarity, and confidence to complex financial environments. They are equally comfortable operating at a strategic level with the Board as they are diving into operational details. This leader thrives in transitional environments and is motivated by stabilizing organizations, strengthening financial systems, and positioning teams for long-term success.
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