Position Overview The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will lead financial planning and management for SMA, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization and its ministries. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the CFO will collaborate closely with senior leadership and related organizations to implement mission-aligned financial strategies. This is an executive leadership role ideal for a strategic, values-driven financial professional committed to supporting SMA’s mission of service and social justice.
Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership -
Develop financial strategies aligned with SMA’s mission, culture, and demographic trends. -
Engage leadership and committees on financial performance and opportunities. -
Oversee long-term and annual budgeting, including property and community initiatives. -
Advise on investments, philanthropy, and socially responsible investing (SRI). Member and Community Support -
Ensure financial services support the needs of sisters with sensitivity and clarity. -
Manage wills, estates, and probate matters for deceased members. Financial Oversight -
Oversee budgeting, accounting, audits, cash management, and risk management. -
Evaluate organizational risk and determine appropriate insurance coverage. -
Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and financial performance. Operations, Legal & Risk Management -
Lead IT, procurement, and supply chain operations supporting SMA’s mission. -
Manage legal support and ensure compliance in contracting, documentation, and governance. -
Implement modernization and process-improvement initiatives. Department Leadership -
Manage department staff, develop policies, and oversee budgets. -
Foster a culture of teamwork, mentorship, and mission-aligned service excellence. -
Act as thought partner to senior leadership for cross-departmental initiatives. Board & Committee Engagement
Qualifications Education & Certification -
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field required. -
Master’s degree, MBA, or CPA preferred. Experience -
10–15 years of progressive financial leadership experience in large, complex organizations (preferably nonprofit or healthcare). -
Proven experience managing multi-state or distributed teams. -
Knowledge of financial systems, investments, risk management, insurance, and government programs. Skills & Competencies -
Strategic and analytical thinking with strong financial and administrative expertise. -
Excellent communication, presentation, and project management skills. -
High integrity, confidentiality, and alignment with organizational values. -
Ability to travel up to 30% for organizational needs. Values -
Commitment to SMA’s values: respect, stewardship, integrity, hospitality, and compassion. -
Appreciation for the culture and traditions of the Sisters of Mercy.
Location Belmont, North Carolina, is a charming, historic town along the Catawba River, just 15 minutes from Charlotte. The area offers: -
Strong community values, faith-based institutions, and excellent schools. -
Access to outdoor recreation, cultural events, and regional business centers. -
Home to Belmont Abbey College, St. Joseph Seminary, and SMA’s Sacred Heart Retirement Convent and ministries.
Application Process Interested candidates should contact:
Jill DiGiovanni, Managing Associate, ZRG Partners
Email: jdigiovanni@zrgpartners.com
Phone: +1.757.734.1108 ZRG Partners provides a rigorous, data-driven assessment process, including initial interviews, client review, online assessment, finalist interviews, and referencing prior to final offers. |