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Build East Baton Rouge

Director of Finance

Build East Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, us, 70873

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Build East Baton Rouge (Build EBR) is seeking a strategic, detail-oriented Director of Finance to lead the agency’s financial operations. This role manages all budgeting, accounting, compliance, contract management, and financial planning for redevelopment initiatives, spanning operating budgets, grant funding, construction projects, and real estate transactions. The Director will ensure strong internal controls, lead the annual audit, oversee financial systems, and build foundational policies and procedures for a growing public agency. This role offers the potential to evolve into a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) position as the organization expands.

Key Responsibilities Financial Oversight & Budgeting

Lead the annual budgeting and multi-year forecasting processes for both agency operations and redevelopment initiatives

Prepare and manage budgets for capital improvement projects, acquisitions, and construction

Develop financial models, analyze cost structures, and provide actionable insights to optimize portfolio performance

Monitor cash flow and expenditures, ensuring sustainability across public, private, and grant-based funding sources

Provide regular financial reports to the CEO, COO, board members, and funders

Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports

Track key performance indicators, analyze project-level costs and risks, and assess return on investment

Maintain audit-ready documentation for all revenue sources and transactions

Ensure all reporting complies with GAAP, grant regulations, and legal standards

Accounting & Internal Controls

Serve as the agency’s in-house accountant, maintaining the chart of accounts and general ledger

Manage day-to-day accounting functions including reconciliations, journal entries, receivables, and payables

Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and internal controls

Coordinate with external accounting firms or consultants when needed

Audit & Compliance

Lead the annual audit process, working closely with external auditors and internal teams to provide data and documentation

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local reporting requirements, including grants, tax filings, and procurement rules

Track all funding sources (Philanthropic grants, federal, state, and local grants, tax credits, investments, tax-increment financing, donations, etc.) to ensure regulatory compliance

Oversee financials for land acquisition, property sales, leases, and construction projects

Coordinate disbursements, contractor payments, and cost-to-completion tracking

Support financial closings, cash flow projections, and funder compliance related to capital projects

Contract Management

Track all contracts to ensure timely renewal, review, and compliance with terms

Ensure contracted services are received before payments are authorized

Monitor incoming revenue from third-party contracts to ensure BBR receives funds owed

Maintain a central contract calendar and alert relevant staff of key deadlines and deliverables

Strategic Financial Planning

Lead long-term financial planning aligned with organizational and redevelopment goals

Assess financial feasibility of new programs, projects, and funding models

Develop risk management strategies to protect against market volatility, project delays, or funding gaps

Manage and mentor financial staff, including analysts, accountants, and/or administrative support

Promote strong collaboration across teams including real estate, planning, development, construction and external partners

Foster a high-performance culture with accountability and transparency

Qualifications Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required

Master’s degree and professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CFA) strongly preferred.

Experience

At least 5-10 years of experience in financial management, operations, or real estate development, with a strong track record of managing large, complex redevelopment projects.

Experience in public-private partnerships, real estate finance, or urban renewal is highly preferred.

Demonstrated expertise in financial modeling, budgeting, cost management, and cash flow analysis.

Advanced proficiency in financial analysis, modeling, and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, QuickBooks, SAP, etc.).

Deep understanding of GAAP, fund accounting, and internal controls

Strong organizational, leadership, project management, and communication skills

Ability to build systems from the ground up in a mission-driven environment

Knowledge of construction and redevelopment processes, including budgeting and financial considerations.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to diverse audiences.

Ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with both internal teams and external partners, including government agencies, developers, and investors.

Office-based with optional hybrid work as approved by the CEO

Occasional travel to project sites, partner meetings, or conferences

Some evening or weekend work may be required for deadlines or board meetings

Travel may be required for site evaluations or to attend financial or industry-related meetings and conferences.

Compensation

Salary Range: $90,000 – $120,000, commensurate with experience

Benefits include health insurance, paid leave, retirement contributions, and professional development support

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