Director, Finance & Operations

Silver Spring, Maryland, The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) is the leading association for public sector waste and resource management professionals across North America. With 47 Chapters spanning the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin, SWANA connects a diverse network of industry professionals committed to advancing from waste management to resource management. We support our members through technical education, training, credentialing, and research, while also advocating for the essential role our industry plays in protecting public health, supporting the economy, and building sustainable communities. Role Overview The Director of Finance and Administration provides leadership and oversight of SWANA's financial management, technology and administrative operations. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, this position plays an important role in ensuring that SWANA has the financial information, systems, processes and operational support needed to function effectively and achieve its organizational goals.

The Director oversees financial planning, budgeting, reporting and compliance, while providing analysis and guidance to support sound business decisions. The Director helps ensure that SWANA's technology, facilities, HR and administrative functions operate efficiently and meet the organization's evolving needs, working in partnership with external consultants and service providers.

The successful candidate will be a collaborative, hands-on leader who combines strong financial expertise with practical business judgment, effective communication and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership and Strategy

Provide financial leadership and guidance to the CEO, leadership team, Finance Committee and Board of Directors. Develop financial plans, forecasts and analyses that support organizational priorities and long-term sustainability. Prepare and present financial reports and recommendations to support informed business decisions. Evaluate financial risks, revenue opportunities and organizational investments.

Financial Operations and Accounting

Oversee financial operations, including accounting, financial reporting, payroll, accounts payable and receivable and month-end and year-end processes. Supervise the finance team, ensuring accurate financial records, timely reporting and effective daily operations. Manage cash flow, reserves, banking relationships and investment activities in coordination with external advisors. Maintain appropriate financial policies, internal controls and compliance with nonprofit accounting and reporting requirements.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Lead the annual budgeting process in collaboration with the CEO and department leaders. Monitor financial performance, analyze budget variances and provide recommendations to leadership. Evaluate the financial performance of SWANA's programs and revenue streams, including membership, conferences, education, certification and sponsorships.

Audit, Compliance, and Risk Management

Coordinate the annual independent audit, IRS Form 990 preparation and required financial filings. Prepare financial reporting and materials for the Finance Committee and Board of Directors. Ensure compliance with financial policies, contracts, regulatory requirements and other financial obligations. Identify and address financial and operational risks through effective planning and oversight.

Human Resources and Administration

Oversee SWANA's human resources functions in collaboration with the CEO, external HR resources and other service providers. Ensure effective administration of compensation, benefits, employment policies and HR processes, including compliance with applicable employment laws. Oversee facilities and building operations, including serving as the liaison with building management, managing leases and coordinating related service providers. Identify opportunities to improve administrative systems, processes and organizational efficiency.

Technology and Vendor Management

Oversee relationships with external technology partners to ensure reliable, secure and effective IT services. Coordinate technology planning, system improvements and related investments in partnership with external providers. Manage relationships and contracts with financial, technology, HR, legal and administrative service providers. Monitor vendor performance, costs and service quality to support organizational needs.

Leadership and Collaboration

Partner with the CEO and department leaders to support organizational planning and effective decision-making. Promote collaboration, accountability and a service-oriented approach to financial and administrative operations.

Salary Range: $130,000 - $150,000 per year Why SWANA?

Be part of an evolution : Help shape the next chapter of SWANA’s transformation from waste to resource management. Meaningful mission : Contribute to sustainability, safety, and innovation across communities and industry. Purpose-driven team : Work with professionals aligned around SWANA’s strategic pillars: safety, sustainability, professional development, and member value. Work with flexibility : Hybrid-remote options plus a benefits package that includes generous leave, medical plan options (including employer-funded HSA) and employer-paid life and disability.

How to Apply Submit your resume, cover letter, and salary expectations to hr@swana.org. SWANA is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or veteran status. Qualifications Required

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in finance, accounting, or financial management, including experience supervising staff or leading financial operations. Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, accounting principles, audits, and internal controls. Experience developing and managing organizational budgets and providing financial analysis to support business decisions. Ability to interpret and communicate financial information clearly to leadership, staff, and other stakeholders. Experience working with external vendors, consultants, or professional service providers. General understanding of human resources, technology, and administrative functions, with the ability to provide effective oversight in partnership with subject matter experts. Strong analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated ability to balance strategic priorities with hands-on operational responsibilities and manage competing deadlines. Must be based in the Washington D.C. area.

Preferred

Experience working in a nonprofit, association, membership organization, or professional society. Experience with nonprofit financial reporting, audits, and regulatory requirements. Experience supporting board committees or presenting financial information to executive leadership. Familiarity with membership, conference, education, certification, or sponsorship-based revenue models. Experience overseeing or coordinating HR, IT, facilities, or administrative operations. CPA, MBA, or other relevant professional certification. Familiarity with association management systems, accounting software, and financial reporting tools.