Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Summary :

Directs and coordinates the Finance and Financial Reporting operations of the Cooperative, performs as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

• Provides overall leadership of the Cooperative’s finance and accounting operations, including financial reporting, liquidity management, and both short- and long-term financial planning. Advises the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board of Directors on financial strategy and performance.
• Directs operational and capital budgeting, treasury functions, forecasting, and variance analysis, ensuring proper utilization and control of Cooperative assets.
• Ensures strong internal controls and compliance with all regulatory and reporting requirements, including the RUS Uniform System of Accounts, USDA loan covenants, IRS and state filings, and annual independent audits. Prepares audit results for the Board Audit Committee and ensures corrective actions are implemented when necessary.
• Oversees cooperative-specific accounting functions such as the allocation and retirement of patronage capital in accordance with Bylaws and Board policy. Maintains the Cooperative’s tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(12) and benchmarks financial performance against peer cooperatives, NRECA, and regional associations.
• Coordinates rate studies, cost-of-service analyses, tariff filings, and other financial reporting with regulators including MPSC and FERC (if applicable) to ensure fair and sustainable member rates.
• Administers the Cooperative’s natural gas supply program, including forecasting, procurement, daily monitoring of volumes, reporting to management and the Board, rate analysis, and supply modeling.
• Provides financial oversight for subsidiaries and broadband / fiber operations, including grant compliance, cost allocation, financial reporting, and capital build-out planning.
• Establishes and maintains effective relationships with Cooperative members, municipalities, regulators, lenders, financial institutions, community partners, and the investment community. Represents the Cooperative at community organizations and functions as appropriate.
• Directs and supports departmental staff, including hiring, training, supervising, and evaluating performance. Enforces Cooperative policies and fosters professional working relationships while building the next generation of Cooperative leadership.
• Ensures finance and accounting functions support and align with the Cooperative’s mission, strategy, and long-range goals, contributing to the overall success of the organization.

Supervisory Responsibilities :

Provides leadership and direction to the Accounting and Stock departments, including direct supervision of department supervisors and other accounting staff. Ensures all supervisory responsibilities are carried out in accordance with Cooperative policies, applicable laws, and best practices in people management.

Education and / or Experience :

Bachelor's degree (B.A. / B.S.) in Accounting or Finance from an accredited four-year college or university and five to seven years related experience and / or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. MBA preferred.

Competencies :

Qualifications :

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations :

Physical Demands :

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position primarily requires extended periods of sitting, keyboard use, and participation in meetings and presentations. The role also involves frequent verbal and written communication, both in person and through electronic means. Occasional travel by car or plane is required to attend meetings, conferences, and training sessions.

Work Environment :

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This role is performed mainly in an office setting with a quiet to moderate noise level. Occasional travel and attendance at evening or weekend meetings, community events, or conferences may be required.

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