Chief Financial Officer

Company: Utah Symphony | Utah Opera

Company Location: Salt Lake City, UT

Job Location: On Site/In Person

Job Type: Full Time

Date Posted: April 17, 2025

Network(s): Artistic Administration; Finance, HR, & Administration

DESCRIPTION

JOB OVERVIEW:

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) is seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with a passion for symphonic music, opera, education, and service to our communities. We expect this CFO to bring the energy and creativity necessary to continue our trajectory into a successful future.  Reporting to the President and CEO and serving as a member of our Senior Team, this individual should be a thoughtful and confident advisor at the highest levels while engaging individuals across all levels of the organization. The CFO regularly informs the USUO Board of Trustees and its relevant committees (Finance, Investment, Executive, Audit) of the financial activities and status of the organization.  We expect the ideal candidate to understand the joys and challenges of a renowned 501(c)(3) arts organization and to embrace our mission to “Connect the community through great live music.”  As an advisor and leader, this individual must be able to tactfully and assuredly inform and guide USUO toward increasing financial success. The CFO will oversee all financial procedures for USUO and act as the Senior Team representative for the Finance Department and the Director of Information Technologies.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

·         Serve as the organization’s primary strategist for financial success, accounting policies, controls, and compliance.  This will include long-term planning and visionary problem-solving while understanding and supporting our status as a Not-For-Profit.

·         Under the direction of the CEO and with the Chief Operating Officer (COO), help guide all aspects of USUO’s mission, vision, and organizational success.

·         Develop the annual budget in conjunction with the CEO, COO, Senior Team, Controller, and Department Heads. 

·         Monitor trends and the overall fiscal health of USUO and report any concerns to the CEO and the COO along with suggestions for potential actions.

·         Advise department heads and Senior Team in developing USUO’s long-range plan, including strategic, artistic, and operational initiatives that meet or improve financial objectives and organizational efficiencies.

·         Oversees and directs budgeting, audit, accounting, insurances, pension, endowment, physical property, and information technologies.

·         Direct and prepare monthly financial reports for the Finance Committee, Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, or Senior Team.

·         Supply accurate and timely financial information, as required, for grants, reports, surveys, etc.

·         Serve as the liaison with financial institutions handling all USUO accounts including banking, retirement, investment advisors, brokers, and other.

·         Maintain an open-door policy for financial or general needs from all USUO constituents.

·         Strategically direct and oversee technology operations, including regular monitoring of organizationally-relevant hardware and software needs, data security, and any AI initiatives.

·         Attend concerts and performances and engage with organizational partners.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

·         Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in finance or a related field.

·         Minimum of 10 years in finance and accounting experience in organizational settings.

·         Ability to project information and monitor results.

·         Effectively communicate and interact with administrative staff, musicians, Board members, community partners, patrons, and vendors.

·         Proven experience and success in all aspects of responsible financial leadership.

·         Expert Excel skills (formulas, pivot tables, etc.).

·         Expert analytical and problem-solving skills.

·         Strong understanding of databases/systems.

·         Knowledge of MS Great Plains Dynamics a plus.

·         Expert organizational skills with the ability to handle overlapping details, deadlines, and requests.

·         Ability to discretely and tactfully handle and secure confidential information.

·         Extended work schedule regularly required, including nights and weekends, often totaling 50 to 60 hours per week to complete job duties.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·         Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.

·         Able to move equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

Pay begins at $140,000

Desired Start Date: September 1, 2025

BENEFITS

Pay Range: $140,000 - $140,000 Annual