How to apply for Director of Finance

About The Chisholm Legacy Project: A Resource Hub for Black Frontline Climate Justice Leadership

The Chisholm Legacy Project (TCLP) is a Black women-led organization rooted in the Just Transition Framework, connecting Black frontline communities to resources for climate justice and systemic change. It uniquely bridges grassroots movements with mainstream entities to advance regenerative, cooperative, and democratic systems. Working here means being part of a mission-driven team dedicated to Black Liberation, equity, and caring for sacred relationships with people and the Earth.

About the role

As Director of Finance, you will oversee TCLP's daily financial operations, ensuring robust reporting, compliance, and forecasting to support the organization's growth. You will lead the annual independent audit and 990 filing, manage departmental budgets, and develop financial policies that align with TCLP's values. This role is pivotal in stewarding resources that fuel frontline climate justice leadership.

A typical day

A typical day might involve reviewing cash flow and preparing financial reports for leadership, meeting with program directors to align budgets with grant requirements, and ensuring compliance deadlines are met. You could also spend time developing financial policies, leading audit preparation, or collaborating with the board treasurer on strategic financial planning—all while working remotely and engaging with a mission-driven team.

Who The Chisholm Legacy Project: A Resource Hub for Black Frontline Climate Justice Leadership is looking for

• Demonstrates a deep commitment to Black Liberation, climate justice, and the Just Transition Framework, with a willingness to engage in ongoing learning and unlearning.
• Has 7+ years of progressive finance experience, including nonprofit accounting, audit management, and compliance (e.g., 990, GAAP, grant reporting).
• Is proficient in financial software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage Intacct) and advanced Excel; experience with remote financial operations is a plus.
• Possesses strong communication skills to translate financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders and collaborate across departments.
• Shows cultural humility and experience working with Black-led or frontline community organizations, ideally in climate or social justice spaces.

Tips for this application

• Highlight any experience with nonprofit financial management, especially audit leadership and 990 preparation, as these are core responsibilities.
• Explicitly connect your personal or professional journey to Black Liberation, climate justice, or Just Transition principles in your cover letter.
• Demonstrate familiarity with restricted grant funding and compliance for foundations or federal grants, as TCLP likely relies on diverse funding streams.
• Use keywords from the job description (e.g., 'financial operations,' 'forecasting,' 'compliance filings') to tailor your resume for applicant tracking systems.
• If you have experience in remote-first finance roles, emphasize your ability to manage systems and collaborate virtually across time zones.

What to cover in your cover letter

In your cover letter, emphasize: (1) your commitment to TCLP's mission and how your values align with Black Liberation and climate justice; (2) specific examples of managing audits, 990 filings, and compliance in a nonprofit setting; (3) your ability to develop financial policies and forecasts that support strategic growth; and (4) your experience collaborating with program teams to build budgets and reports that empower frontline communities.

Research before applying

• Study the Just Transition Framework and its principles to understand the broader context of TCLP's work.
• Explore TCLP's website, annual reports, and recent initiatives to learn about their programs and impact in Black frontline communities.
• Research the founders and key leaders, such as Jacqui Patterson, to understand the organization's origins and vision.
• Look into TCLP's funding sources and partnerships (e.g., foundations, federal grants) to anticipate financial management needs.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• How would you ensure financial practices align with TCLP's Just Transition values and commitment to Black Liberation?
• Walk us through your process for leading a successful annual audit and 990 filing, including any challenges you've overcome.
• Describe your experience with restricted fund accounting and how you ensure compliance with grant requirements.
• How do you approach financial forecasting and budgeting in a growing nonprofit with multiple funding sources?
• Give an example of how you've communicated complex financial information to a non-financial audience, such as a board or community partners.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Avoid using generic language about 'passion for nonprofits' without tying it specifically to Black Liberation, climate justice, or Just Transition.
• Do not overlook the importance of cultural humility; candidates who fail to acknowledge the organization's Black women-led, frontline-focused approach may be screened out.
• Avoid focusing solely on corporate finance experience without demonstrating adaptability to nonprofit accounting, compliance, and grant management.