What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Director, Finance position at North Carolina Courage?
The Senior Director of Finance will be the top finance leader for the North Carolina Football Club, owner and operator of two professional soccer teams – the North Carolina Courage of the NWSL and North Carolina FC of USL Championship. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations, strategic planning, and financial reporting for the organization. The Senior Director of Finance will manage and mentor a small team of finance professionals, ensuring accurate financial management and driving the financial strategy that supports the team's overall goals. This person will work closely with the Executive Leadership team and senior leadership across all departments to optimize financial performance, drive growth, and ensure fiscal responsibility.
This position is required to be in office during the work week with flexibility to WFH 1-2 days a week depending on where we are in the season.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Strategy
This position is required to be in office during the work week with flexibility to WFH 1-2 days a week depending on where we are in the season.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Strategy
- Lead and manage the Finance team fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
- Partner with senior leadership to develop long-term financial strategies and initiatives that align with the team’s overall vision and goals.
- Serve as a key advisor to the Executive Leadership Team on financial matters, helping to translate complex financial data into actionable insights.
- Oversee the annual budgeting process, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and the optimal allocation of resources.
- Lead the preparation of financial forecasts and variance analyses, providing timely and accurate reports to support decision-making.
- Monitor key financial metrics and recommend actions to improve financial performance.
- Proactively identify and create financial reports to help executive leadership make data-driven decisions (e.g., gameday P&L).
- Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of financial statements.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and industry standards, including financial reporting, tax filings, and audits.
- Work with external auditors to facilitate the annual audit process and ensure compliance with all accounting standards.
- Manage cash flow forecasting and optimize cash management strategies to ensure liquidity and financial stability.
- Oversee staff and team payroll, player salaries, and incentive structures, ensuring compliance with league rules and regulations.
- Support investor-related efforts (e.g., reports, due diligence) as needed.
- Implement and maintain effective financial controls and processes to safeguard assets and ensure the accuracy of financial records.
- Evaluate and upgrade financial systems and tools to enhance efficiency and reporting capabilities.
- Develop and mentor a high-performing finance team, providing coaching and career development opportunities.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field (MBA or CPA preferred).
- Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in finance, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Experience in the sports industry is a plus.
- Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
- Proven experience managing teams, driving results, and collaborating across departments to achieve business objectives.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.
- Strong proficiency in financial software and systems (e.g., Sage Intacct, Excel, etc.).
- High level of integrity, attention to detail, and a proactive problem-solving mindset.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to balance short-term financial needs with long-term organizational goals.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative and team-oriented mindset.
- Passion for sports and a deep understanding of the financial complexities within the industry.