Chief Financial Officer

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.

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 functionCANDIDATE 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 judgmentQUALIFICATIONS12–15+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, including executive-level rolesCPA 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 iscompetitive 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. Equal Opportunity Employer Duke Ellington School of the Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.