Director of Operations & Finance

POSITION SUMMARY
The Director of Operations & Finance is a senior leader responsible for the financial stewardship, operational systems, and internal health of the Arts & Business Council. Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the Board Treasurer and Finance & Audit Committee, this role ensures that ABC’s finance, human resources, compliance, and administrative systems are strong, transparent, and aligned with the organization’s mission. As ABC continues to grow, the Director will maintain and strengthen existing practices while helping design new systems that support a sustainable and high-functioning workplace. The ideal candidate has a passion for supporting the arts and is energized by building systems that help a mission-driven team operate more effectively.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial Management & Accounting
– Maintain accurate financial records using QuickBooks Online, including ABC’s operating account(s) and approximately 20 fiscally sponsored project funds
– Code transactions, manage accounts payable and receivable, and perform regular reconciliations
– Provide cross-department support such as collaborating with the Director of Programs to maintain financial procedures and reporting expectations for fiscally sponsored projects, and with the Director of Development to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance for grants
– Oversee payroll processing and ensure compliance with all tax and regulatory requirements
– Support the Board Finance & Audit Committee with clear and timely financial reporting and analysis
– Coordinate with external auditors and accountants during the annual audit and Form 990 preparation
– Ensure financial practices meet nonprofit accounting standards and support transparency and accountability

Operational Infrastructure
– Maintain and strengthen internal systems, policies, and procedures that support staff efficiency and organizational sustainability
– Design and implement new processes where needed to support a growing organization; prepare training documents, conduct staff training, and manage communications on new or updated policies and systems
– Manage vendor relationships related to payroll, benefits, insurance, accounting, and technology
– Ensure compliance with required nonprofit filings and regulatory requirements
– Support internal planning and logistics for organizational initiatives and special projects
– Once in a physical office, oversee day-to-day operational and administrative functions such as maintaining office supplies and equipment, and coordinating with vendors, service providers, and facility managers as needed

Human Resources & Culture
– Oversee HR systems and policies, compliant with Tennessee labor law and nonprofit best practices
– Support staff onboarding and performance review processes, professional development systems, and organizational culture-building activities
– Manage employee benefits administration in coordination with external vendors
– Serve as a trusted and confidential resource for staff on HR and workplace matters
– Partner with the Executive Director to maintain a healthy, collaborative organizational culture marked by respect for each other; model and encourage behavior consistent with ABC’s personnel policies

Leadership & Organizational Partnership
– Serve as a key member of ABC’s leadership team and an operational partner to the Executive Director
– Contribute to organizational planning by ensuring operational systems support strategic and programmatic goals
– Serve as an internal subject matter expert for relevant ABC programs (e.g., VLPA) as needed
– Represent the organization with professionalism and integrity when working with partners, vendors, and community stakeholders

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE
Experience
– 6-10 years of professional experience in nonprofit operations, finance, HR, administration, or a related field
– Advanced degree or certification (CPA, SHRM, CMA, or MBA) a plus
– Experience managing financial records, budgets, and accounting systems; familiarity with nonprofit accounting practices and compliance requirements
– Experience supporting HR systems and organizational operations
– Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and QuickBooks Online required
– Familiarity with payroll and HR platforms such as ADP, Gusto, BambooHR, or similar tools a plus
– Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Nonprofit Management, or a related field preferred

Core Competencies
– Mission Fit: Demonstrates a genuine commitment to strengthening Greater Nashville’s creative economy.
– Financial Stewardship & Accountability: Maintains accurate financial records, understands nonprofit accounting practices, and ensures responsible and transparent financial management.
– Entrepreneurial Systems Builder: Comfortable working in a growing organization where systems are evolving. Demonstrates initiative, creativity, and practical problem-solving in building efficient, sustainable processes.
– Systems Thinking & Process Improvement: Able to both maintain existing operational systems and thoughtfully design new ones when needed. Builds practical, sustainable processes that support staff success.
– Exceptional Attention to Detail: Brings strong organizational and time management skills, maintains clear and accurate documentation, and demonstrates well-structured operational systems.
– People-Centered HR Leadership: Leads by example and supports strong workplace culture through thoughtful HR policies, clear communication, and respect for staff and constituents; demonstrates a commitment to equity in organizational policies and practices.
– Communication & Relationship Skills: Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills, excellent interpersonal judgment, and professionalism in all interactions.

Work Environment
– The work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts requiring normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices, meeting and training rooms; use of safe work practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, and observance of fire regulations. The Arts & Business Council employs a flexible, hybrid work model with most office hours currently spent in the employee’s preferred remote work location. Some work events may be outside or in temperature-controlled offices/venues.
– Some work outside of typical office hours (9am-5pm M-F) may be required during the planning and execution of special events, fundraisers, or other external community events. Some light local travel for meetings and events may also be required.
– The work environment will require walking, standing, bending and carrying of items weighing 1-30 lbs. Also, the employee must have manual dexterity, visual, and auditory acuity. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

The Arts & Business Council is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, belonging, and access. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are dedicated to ensuring racial and cultural equity in our policies, and seek partners who share these values and actively integrate them into their professional practice.

HOW TO APPLY
Please email your resume and cover letter to the Arts & Business Council at jobs@abcnashville.org with “Director of Operations & Finance – [Your Name]” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. No phone calls, please.

ABOUT THE ARTS & BUSINESS COUNCIL
The Arts & Business Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that leverages and unites the unique resources of the arts and business communities to create a thriving, sustainable creative culture in Nashville.
What We Do
– We create mutually beneficial partnerships between arts and business.
– We provide direct services, key opportunities, and education to the creative community to help them master the business of art.
– We inspire workplace creativity in businesses to demonstrate the impact of the arts through tangible benefits and develop life-long arts participants and supporters.