Director of Finance

Job Description: Director of Finance
The Tucson Industrial Development Authority (Tucson IDA) and Groundswell Capital

The Tucson Industrial Development Authority (Tucson IDA) is a mission-driven economic
development finance agency committed to fostering economic growth, affordable housing, and
community development. In partnership with our support organization, Groundswell Capital—the
state’s first greenbank—we have deployed millions in bond funding, downpayment assistance,
and loan capital to support our communities economic prosperity. We play a pivotal role in
financing projects that create opportunities for underserved populations, support economic
development, and lead on regional climate resilience. We are now seeking a dynamic, strategic
finance leader to serve as a trusted partner to our Board and CEO, driving financial excellence
and innovation across the organization.

As our first Finance Director, this role is critical to advancing the mission, vision, and strategic
goals of the organization by increasing financial compliance, ensuring strong financial
management, and modeling economic development products that are profitable and
sustainable.

A successful Finance Director for this position is an energetic, multi-skilled professional with
proven business acumen, powerful analytical skills, vigilance to details and execution, and
exceptional self-management skills. A desire to learn and absorb complex topics is a must as
our organization engages with a wide variety of financial tools including:

• Bond finance
• Small business microloan finance
• Commercial and clean energy loan finance
• Real estate finance
• Federal grant management

The ideal candidate has firsthand experience with the unique challenges and opportunities of
nonprofit and government finance, expertise in revenue generation and cash flow analysis, and
a track record of streamlining financial and compliance operations. Experience with lending or
clean energy finance is preferred, along with core strengths in one or more of the following
areas: economic development, investment management, risk tolerance management,
accounting, and/or grant compliance management.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Operations: Oversee the day-to-day financial operations of Tucson IDA and

Groundswell Capital, ensuring adherence to accounting standards and internal controls.

Financial operations are conducted in partnership with administrative and book-keeping
team members, but are ultimately accountable to the Director of Finance.

• Strategic Financial Leadership: Collaborate with senior leadership to identify and

capitalize on new revenue opportunities, improve operational efficiencies, and guide the
organization’s 5-year roadmap.

• Budgeting & Forecasting: Develop and manage annual budgets, cash flow projections,

and long-term financial plans; conduct scenario analyses to support strategic
decision-making.

• Team & Stakeholder Management: Lead, mentor, and inspire finance staff while

fostering strong relationships with Board members, community partners, donors, and
external stakeholders.

• Compliance & Audit: Prepare for and manage annual audits and regulatory reviews,

maintaining robust financial reporting practices and compliance with applicable laws and
standards.

Required Skills and Experience

• Extensive Financial Leadership:

Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in financial management—preferably

in nonprofit, governmental, or economic development settings—with a
demonstrable record of enhancing operational efficiency and driving revenue
growth.

• Strategic & Analytical Expertise:

Proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive financial strategies,

• At least 10 years of experience managing complex projects and multi-priority

initiatives, with a strong track record of delivering results on time and within
scope.

• Team Leadership & Relationship Building:

Demonstrated experience in leading diverse, high-performing teams with a focus

• Deep knowledge of accounting principles, regulatory compliance, and financial

reporting standards.

• Proficiency with modern accounting systems (e.g., QuickBooks Online) and

familiarity with federal grant management and audit processes.

• A strong commitment to ethical financial management, transparency, and

innovation.

• A proactive approach to continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving

financial landscape.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience in grant-funded programming and managing compliance in complex

regulatory environments.

• Familiarity with diverse financial instruments (e.g., bond finance, commercial/clean

energy loan finance, real estate finance) and innovative capital deployment strategies.

• Advanced certifications (e.g., CPA, CFA) or advanced degrees in finance, economics, or

related fields.

• A demonstrated passion for community development and sustainable economic

practices.

Benefits Package

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Competitive retirement plan
• Generous paid time off and parental leave
• Professional development opportunities

How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their resume and a cover letter to admin@tucsonida.org.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.