Financial Accountability Officer

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Tribal Chairman and/or Council, the Financial Accountability Officer (FAO) is responsible for overseeing financial accountability within the Tribe. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring financial integrity, monitoring expenditures, implementing internal controls, reviewing financial transactions, identifying potential risks, and ensuring compliance with financial policies, regulations, and ethical standards. This role is vital in maintaining the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, tracking financial transactions, and managing financial risks to protect the Tribe’s assets. The FAO will work closely with various departments to implement financial best practices, conduct audits, and establish effective internal controls.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Ensure all financial activities are compliant with the Tribe’s laws, regulations and ordinances; and applicable laws or regulations.

2. Design, implement, and monitor internal controls that minimize financial risks, fraud, or mismanagement. Includes assessing risk areas and suggesting corrective measures to mitigate those risks.

3. Monitor and review financial reports, ensuring accuracy and transparency.

4. Assist in preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

5. Facilitates internal and external audits, ensuring all required documentation is prepared and available.

6. Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls and policies to ensure financial integrity.

7. Conduct regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and recommend corrective actions.

8. Ensure appropriate security and control of all financial data and transactions.

9. Analyze financial data to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for improvement.

10. Prepare financial performance reports and forecasts for Tribal Council and management.

11. Monitor cash flow and budgets, ensuring financial efficiency.

12. Provide training and guidance to Tribal Council and staff on financial accountability procedures, policies, and best practices.

13. Collaborate with other departments to ensure financial transactions align with strategic objectives. Providing guidance and training to department managers/directors, making sure everyone understands how to manage their budgets effectively.

14. Maintain accurate financial records and ensure all transactions are properly documented.

15. Keep abreast of changes in financial regulations, standards, and best practices, integrating these into the Tribe’s policies, as needed.

16. Uphold the highest standards of ethics and accountability in all financial matters.

17. Report any irregularities, potential fraud, or discrepancies promptly.

18. Provides Tribal Council and the Chairman with regular reports.

19. Supports the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in making strategic decisions that impact the Tribe’s long-term financial health. Involving cost-saving recommendations or adjustments in financial strategy based on data trends.

20. Conducts investigations into suspected financial irregularities or violations of policies, reporting findings to the Tribal Council.

21. Acts as a key advisor and enforcer of sound financial practices, helping the CFO maintain control over the organization’s finances while also ensuring long-term financial stability and compliance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position has no supervisory responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have strong knowledge of financial regulations, standards, and best practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with the Tribal Council and Chairman, management, staff and external parties.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Financial acumen including budgeting and financial reporting.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times, stressful environment.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must have the following attributes: integrity, accountability, and a commitment to transparency.
• Proficient in accounting software, spreadsheets (excel, etc.), and financial management tools.
• Must be able to perform essential computer functions and operate software programs such as; Word, Excel, Power Point, Publisher, Adobe, Outlook, Access and other programs as needed to develop reports, proposals, budgets, and give presentations to perform the duties of this job. Familiarity with word processing, spreadsheet applications, data base applications, presentation and publication software applications and social media platforms preferred.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

· Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Finance or Accounting, Public Administration, or similar, from an accredited university; AND at least (5) five years of business administration and/or experience related to the organization’s industry required with supervisory and leadership experience. OR

· Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance or Accounting, Economics, or similar from an accredited university; AND at least 7-10 years of business administration and/or experience related to the organization’s industry required with finance, auditing, or related.

· Certified CPA, CFA or similar, preferred.

· Expertise with the Tribe’s internal control frameworks, or ability to learn.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

1. Regular employees are subject to an annual performance evaluation following a 90-day evaluation from hire date.

2. Position is considered safety sensitive and employee is subject to the Tribal Alcohol & Drug Policy including preemployment, random, post-accident (the employee will be automatically tested), reasonable cause and re-entry alcohol & drug testing.

3. Employee is subject to Hoopa Valley Tribe's Title 30-A, Employment Background Investigation Policy.

4. Must possess a valid California Driver's License and be insurable under the Tribes Motor Vehicle Policy during term of employment.

5. Contract Employment: the employee is hired as a contract employee and is not considered a permanent employee of the Hoopa Valley Tribe. The contract does not establish an employer-employee relationship beyond the terms outlined within the contract agreement. The employee shall perform duties as outlined in their job description and in accordance with the standards set by the HVT. The contract agreement shall be governed by and interpreted under Tribal law.

6. Reasoning Ability:Ability to define problems, collect and analyze data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions without bias. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

7. Work Environment: Characteristics of the work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential duties of this job. The atmosphere is professional. There is a strong emphasis on clear, respectful, and concise communication; we promote focus and concentration; while there is a lot of individual work, there is also a strong focus on collaboration. Although this position may require long office hours, the Tribe encourages a good work-life balance. Office based, with frequent meetings and engagements. Some travel required for legislative hearings, conferences, and intergovernmental meetings.

8. Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, speeches, and procedure manuals; using innovative techniques. Ability to effectively present sensitive information to Tribal Council, managers, staff and/or the Tribal membership, and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the public.

9. Mathematical Skills: Must have the ability to apply concepts such as modern algebra, advanced calculus, and advanced statistical theory. Must have the ability to compile and analyze data and to perform quantitative and qualitative research analysis essential to program reporting.

10. Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is subject to prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. The incumbent must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

11. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

12. Preference in hiring will be given to qualified Indian Applicants pursuant to Title 13; Hoopa Tribe’s TERO Ordinance apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $120,000