The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a key member of the Executive Management Team and reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and Business Council. The CFO plays a strategic leadership role in the overall management of the Tribe and is responsible for the planning, implementation, management, and oversight of all financial-related activities.
The CFO has primary responsibility for the following functional areas:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Financial Forecasting
- Strategic Financial Planning
- Legal Oversight
- Property Management
- Contract Analysis and Negotiations
- Banking and Financial Institutions
- Investments
- Grant and Contract Management
Major Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Provide leadership in the development and continuous evaluation of short- and long-term strategic financial objectives.
- Evaluate and advise on the financial impact of long-range planning, new programs, strategic initiatives, and regulatory actions.
- Provide recommendations to strategically enhance financial performance and business opportunities.
- Understand and assess the risks and potential opportunities of the Tribe.
Financial Management & Oversight
- Direct and oversee all aspects of the Finance and Accounting functions.
- Manage financial forecasting, budgeting, and reporting processes.
- Ensure timely and accurate analysis of budgets, financial trends, and forecasts.
- Report financial information regularly to the Tribal Council.
- Maintain appropriate insurance coverage.
Compliance & Internal Controls
- Ensure effective internal controls are in place.
- Ensure compliance with:
- Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
- Governmental Accounting Standards
- The Single Audit Act
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations
Governance & Relationships
- Establish and maintain strong working relationships with the Administrator and Tribal Council.
- Advise the Tribal Council on the financial implications of decisions and actions.
- Maintain relationships with external auditors and address audit findings and recommendations.
Systems & Administrative Oversight
- Oversee the Tribe’s automated accounting system and network infrastructure.
- Supervise the Information Technology department, including employees and contractors.
- Supervise Finance Department and supportive services staff.
Education and Experience Requirements
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (or equivalent).
- MBA and/or CPA designation highly desirable.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible financial leadership experience, preferably within a Tribal Government or Tribal entity.
- Experience working within an executive management team.
- High-level written and oral communication skills.
- Valid Driver’s License.
Technical Skills
- Strong PC proficiency in a Windows environment.
- Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
- Working knowledge of MIP accounting software preferred (or similar accounting systems).
Supervisory Controls
Work is performed under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, who establishes overall objectives in consultation with the incumbent. The CFO operates independently in achieving these objectives and provides direct supervision of the Shoshone-Paiute Finance Department.
Personal Attributes & Competencies
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively and manage teams.
- Ability to educate and develop accounting staff.
- Strong problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment based on accurate and timely analysis.
- High level of integrity, dependability, and results orientation.
- Ability to perform effectively in a high-stress environment.
Physical Demands
- Primarily sedentary work.
- Regular sitting, walking, and bending.
- May occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
- Willingness to travel as required.
Work Environment
Work is performed in a professional office setting with adequate furniture, lighting, and equipment.