Chief Financial & Operating Officer; CFO​/COO

We’re Hiring! Apply as the Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFO/COO) today.

Position: Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFO/COO)
Reportsto: Chief Executive Officer Compensation: $120,000 – $145,000 commensurate with experience. Includes a competitive benefits package with generous paid time off, medical, dental, HSA/FSA options, retirement plan, life and disability insurance.

High Line Canal Conservancy A feat of engineering now over 140 years old, the 71-mile-long High Line Canal is outliving its historic function as an irrigation utility and has taken on new life as a recreational resource, wildlife corridor and green stormwater infrastructure. The High Line Canal Conservancy is a nonprofit organization with the mission to preserve, protect and enhance the High Line Canal in partnership with the public through stewardship, community engagement, trail improvements and collaboration with local agencies.

Position Summary The Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFO/COO) is a senior leader, strategic thinker and trusted partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), responsible for translating the organization’s ambitions into sound financial strategy and effective day-to-day operations. This role requires someone who brings both rigor and judgment — someone who can independently manage complex financial and operational responsibilities while also serving as a steady, candid thought partner to organizational leadership.

The CFO/COO directly manages the Accounting and Systems Coordinator (part-time employee) and serves as the primary contact for the Conservancy’s HR and IT consultants.

In partnership with the CEO and leadership team, the CFO/COO turns strategy into action by aligning teams, improving systems, harnessing AI and ensuring the organization’s operations, finances, and cross-functional work run effectively.

• Lead financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes.
• Provide clear financial analysis and insights to support leadership and Board decision-making.
• Ensure accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial reporting and internal controls.
• Monitor and forecast cash flow to ensure operational and capital needs are met.
• Complete or oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, account reconciliations, and grants accounting processes with support of Accounting & Systems Coordinator.
• Manage and oversee annual audit process and Form 990 preparation.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, regulatory requirements, and nonprofit financial standards.
• Manage relationships with auditors, financial institutions, investment advisors, and other financial partners.
• Support the Finance and Investment Committees, including preparation of agendas, materials and presentations in collaboration with the Treasurer.

The CFO/COO is responsible for ensuring effective execution across the organization by aligning teams, systems, and processes, harnessing AI and strengthening core operations. The CFO/COO works closely with the CEO as a key decision maker, acts as a proxy when needed, and leads the resolution of cross-functional challenges.

• Manage organizational planning and review processes (annual planning, budgeting, reviews and performance tracking).
• Oversee personnel, including payroll, benefits administration, HR compliance, and performance management systems, including management of third-party HR provider.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and development of staff in coordination with the leadership team.
• Manage third-party IT partner and oversee IT systems and infrastructure; identify opportunities for system improvements and automation.
• Manage organizational risk, including insurance coverage, contracts, and administrative compliance.

This is a full-time, exempt position with occasional evening commitments. The ideal candidate brings meaningful nonprofit financial leadership experience and has thrived in a role where the work requires both technical depth and close collaboration with senior leadership. They are comfortable carrying independent credibility with boards, auditors, and external partners, and equally…