Studio East, a vibrant youth theatre organization dedicated to nurturing young talent and enriching the community through the performing arts, is seeking a collaborative and experienced Director of Finance and Operations. This pivotal role will oversee the financial, human resources, and operational activities of the organization, ensuring stability, efficiency, and strategic support for all programs.

This position will report to the Executive Director and work collaboratively across the senior staff and the entire organization. The Director will provide hands-on leadership for finance, human resources, operations, and information systems, fostering greater cohesion, communication, and transparency between Studio East’s administrative and programmatic functions. This role will also maintain close working relationships with external finance and HR contractors to ensure efficient and effective management. Direct reports will include the Studio’s office coordinator and external contractors for finance and HR, but this role will interact with every department within the organization.

The Director of Finance and Operations will have ongoing responsibility for the following:

Finance

• Manage the day-to-day financial functions of Studio East, including but not limited to:
  • Work with the Executive Director and Department Heads to manage the annual budget process across the organization; manage its assembly for review by Studio East’s Finance Committee and/or Board of Directors.
  • Provide proactive and regular financial information to the Senior Leadership Team to ensure understanding of the financial implications of Studio East’s programmatic and operational decisions.
  • Prepare comprehensive financial reports (e.g., Profit & Loss statements, Balance Sheets) and accompanying narratives for Board meetings.
  • Assist in the creation of budgets for grant proposals and final reports.
  • Oversee Accounts Payable (A/P) and Accounts Receivable (A/R) across all departments; maintain accurate and ongoing cash flow assessments.
  • Oversee corporate credit card expense reconciliation.
  • Perform primary bookkeeping duties, including general ledger maintenance, journal entries, and reconciliation of accounts.

Human Resources

• With the support and input of the Senior Leadership Team, develop and streamline HR policies and payroll systems across Studio East, acting as an advocate for staff and ensuring clear communication of organizational policies:
  • Oversee onboarding paperwork for all hires, including teaching artists, administrative staff, production crew, and volunteers.
  • Support departments with troubleshooting employee paperwork and timesheets.
  • Administer Studio East’s employee benefits, including health insurance and retirement programs.
  • Assist the Senior Leadership Team in the identification and resolution of personnel issues as they arise.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant labor laws and regulations.

Operations and Information Systems

• Work as a conduit and facilitator for greater transparency and sharing of resources across Studio East, overseeing key operational functions and information systems, including but not limited to:
  • Contract Management: Draft and maintain template agreements, amend as necessary, and manage equitable and consistent contract execution across programs and operations (e.g., facility rentals, vendor agreements).
  • In collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team, review and manage contracts for non-artistic independent contractors and vendors.
  • Facility Management Support: Collaborate with relevant staff on the operational aspects of Studio East's facilities, ensuring they meet the needs of classes, rehearsals, and performances (e.g., maintenance schedules, safety protocols, space utilization).
  • Production and Program Support: Work closely with the Artistic and Education departments to provide operational support for productions, classes, and camps, including resource allocation, scheduling coordination, and logistical oversight.
  • Information Systems: Support ongoing efforts to strengthen and integrate information systems (e.g., ticketing systems, class registration platforms, donor CRM, internal communication tools); work collaboratively with the organization and any external IT support to assess ongoing system needs, share information, and clearly communicate recommendations for improved efficiency and user experience.
• Auxiliary Revenue Oversight: Provide senior-level oversight for Studio East's auxiliary earned revenue streams, including:
  • Strategic planning and financial management for venue rentals (theatre spaces, studios).
  • Financial oversight and inventory management for costume rentals.
  • Management and financial tracking of concessions and merchandise sales.

Identifying opportunities to maximize revenue from these sources.

Qualifications

• Professional training and/or Formal Education in Finance, Business Administration, Non-profit Management, or a related field; CPA and/or demonstrated non-profit accounting acumen.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in finance and operations management, preferably within a non-profit arts or education organization.
• Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, budget management, and compliance.
• Strong understanding of HR best practices, payroll systems, and employee benefits administration.
• Experience with contract management and facility operations support.
• Proficiency with financial software (e.g., QuickBooks) and strong Excel skills.
• Experience with database management and information system integration (e.g., ticketing/registration platforms).
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with a collaborative approach.
• Passion for arts education and youth development.