Careers

Educational Alliance has been changing lives for over 135 years. Today, we provide services to 50,000 New Yorkers annually at 15 locations across the Lower East Side and East Village.

Join our 1,000 employees in helping people build better lives through education, arts and culture, health and wellness, and social services at our community centers and community schools.

Educational Alliance offers a range of opportunities, a stimulating and supportive work environment, and a culture of professional and personal development. We provide our employees with competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including generous time-off policies, free on-site gym membership, and employee discounts.

Chief Financial Officer

Reporting to the President & CEO, the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) will serve as a strategic partner and operational leader responsible for the financial health, integrity, and long-term sustainability of Educational Alliance. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the CFO will lead the finance team and work closely with senior leaders and the Board of Trustees — including the Executive, Finance & Investment, and Audit Committees — to guide financial strategy, risk management, and organizational performance. This is a highly visible and influential role for a financial leader energized by mission-driven work and  motivated to steward a historic and impactful New York City institution into its next chapter.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Fiscal Leadership, Strategy, & Oversight
• Provide strategic financial leadership, ensuring strong fiscal management, long-term sustainability, and alignment with organizational priorities, while building and mentoring a high performing finance team.
• Partner with the CEO and executive team to shape financial strategy, evaluate opportunities, and support data-informed decision-making, ensuring the organization can anticipate and respond proactively to shifts in revenue or funding.
• Oversee accounting, budgeting, forecasting, audit, investments, and cash management functions.
Compliance, Grants, & Operations
• Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, government contracts, and restricted funding requirements.
• Oversee financial management of grants and contracts, including reporting and allocation.
• Strengthen financial systems, internal controls, and operational processes — leveraging technology to enhance transparency, forecasting accuracy, and organizational agility.
Executive Leadership & Board Engagement
• Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to cross-organizational strategy and performance.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the President & CEO on financial trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Partner closely with the Board of Trustees and Finance, Audit, and Investment Committees, presenting clear and strategic financial insights.

 

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Educational Alliance seeks a strategic financial executive with 15+ years of senior-level financial experience, including at least 10 years in senior management. The ideal candidate brings deep technical
expertise, strong judgment, and the ability to partner effectively with executive leadership and the Board in stewarding a complex, mission-driven organization.

 

The CFO will bring:
• Strategic & Financial Acumen — Demonstrated expertise in nonprofit financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and regulatory compliance, with the ability to align financial strategy to long-term organizational priorities.
• Nonprofit & Government Funding Experience — Experience overseeing grant portfolios and, ideally, government contracts, with strong understanding of restricted funding structures and reporting frameworks.
• Operational & Systems Leadership — Proven ability to strengthen financial systems, internal controls, and infrastructure while balancing strategic vision with operational rigor.
• Board & Executive Partnership — Experience advising CEOs and Boards, contributing meaningfully in Board Committee settings, and translating financial data into actionable insight.
• Team & Cross-Functional Management — Experience managing and mentoring finance professionals and engaging staff across an organization on important finance matters.
• Strong EQ & Communication Skills — Ability to build trust and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support nimble decision-making and maximize impact.

 

EDUCATION: BA/BS required; CPA, MBA and/or advanced degree preferred.

TO APPLY: Qualified candidates should submit a resume and thoughtful cover letter in confidence here.