Director, Finance

Director, Finance National Immigration Law Center

Founded in 1979, the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) is a leading non‑profit organization (501(c)(3)) dedicated to defending and advancing the rights and opportunities of low‑income immigrants and their loved ones. NILC’s mission is grounded in the belief that everyone in the United States, regardless of race, gender, immigration status, or economic status, should have equal access to justice, resources, and educational and economic opportunities that enable them to reach their full potential.

Reporting to the Executive Vice President, Operations, the Director of Finance & Accounting leads day‑to‑day accounting operations and the monthly close, producing accurate, auditable interim and annual financial statements. The Director oversees accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, the closing process, and ensures the completeness and accuracy of financial data. The position also manages internal controls, financial systems, audits, tax filings, and works cross‑functionally to improve processes and technology.

• Lead strategic and tactical planning of long‑term and day‑to‑day finance & accounting processes.
• Manage all day‑to‑day financial accounting functions, ensuring revenue and expenses are recorded accurately and timely.
• Maintain and recommend improvements to internal controls and safeguards for revenue, program budgets, and disbursements.
• Review and approve all accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems for GAAP compliance.
• Compile interim and annual financial reports.
• Serve as point of contact for annual 403(b) audit, financial statement audit, and annual tax filings.
• Oversee payroll accounting and tax reporting compliance.
• Configure and maintain financial systems, including GL software, expense management, budgeting, banking, and disbursement systems.
• Collaborate with HR on payroll and timekeeping system configuration and maintenance.
• Ensure financial processes are effective, well documented, and regularly reviewed.
• Complete all state and federal tax forms, registrations, licenses, and insurance renewals.
• Communicate accounting and finance recommendations, risks, reports, and plans to senior leadership and other stakeholders.
• Participate in or lead cross‑functional projects using the MOCHA framework.

• Recruit, interview, hire, and train staff.
• Oversee the daily workflow of direct reports.
• Coach and mentor staff, delivering constructive feedback and fostering a collaborative environment.
• Manage performance using performance management software and documentation.
• Handle disciplinary and performance issues in accordance with policy.
• Manage outside consultants, third‑party administrators, and vendors.

• Champion NILC & IJF’s mission of advancing the rights of low‑income immigrants with human and racial justice.
• Attend and actively participate in NILC meetings at all levels.
• Develop relationships and support colleagues across all teams.
• Follow through on commitments, acting with ownership and integrity.
• Adapt quickly to new situations, experiment, and learn from mistakes.
• Commit to the organization’s values of racial justice & equity, diversity, partnership, respect, and transparency.

Other duties may be assigned depending on organizational need.

• Commitment to NILC & IJF’s mission and values.
• Collaborative, proactive, action‑oriented style with a service mentality.
• Focus on continuous improvement of processes and internal controls.
• Sound judgment, high integrity, and respect for confidentiality.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Excellent attention to detail and risk mitigation record.
• Critical thinking ability and application of accounting rules.
• Ability to motivate a team toward organizational objectives.
• Experience developing cohesive teams and a positive working environment.

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• 10+ years of nonprofit accounting experience, with at least 4 years of supervisory experience.
• Expert…