(Remote)

Are you an experienced Finance Director, Accounting Manager, or Controller looking for a meaningful opportunity in a well-respected and growing trade association? Do you take pride in accuracy, organization, and getting the details right? Are you someone who enjoys working independently, managing systems and processes with precision, and ensuring things run smoothly behind the scenes? If so, we invite you to consider joining our team at a nationally recognized organization at the forefront of the financial industry.

The Institute for Portfolio Alternatives (IPA) is a 40-year-old trade association that serves the alternative investments industry, including private real estate, public and private credit, and other real assets. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the IPA represents global, institutional, and boutique asset managers; distribution partners such as wire houses, broker-dealers, and registered investment advisers; and industry partners including law firms, accounting firms, and technology platforms.

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Director of Finance & Accounting. This position is for a candidate with at least 5 years of relevant experience and offers long-term career growth potential with excellent benefits. The Director will play a critical role in the organization, responsible for overseeing and performing all accounting functions and maintaining sound financial operations.

We are looking for a detail-oriented and results-driven professional who demonstrates strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. This role requires a proactive individual who can work independently, solve problems efficiently, and communicate clearly with colleagues and external stakeholders. This is a full-time, remote position with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Job Summary

As our Director of Finance & Accounting, you will oversee and manage the full range of financial operations for our $5 million annual revenue trade association. This includes everything from the monthly financial close to invoicing members—ensuring the organization maintains a strong financial foundation and operates with transparency and efficiency. You’ll serve as a key partner to the CEO, helping to guide the financial strategy, support compliance and reporting, and ensure smooth internal operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage monthly close process and prepare timely, accurate financial statements
• Oversee accounts payable and receivable, including billing and payments
• Invoice and track member dues and sponsorships in coordination with the membership and events teams
• Lead the annual financial audit or review
• Serve as liaison to the external tax firm for preparation and filing of the annual Form 990 and Form 1099s
• Collaborate with the CEO on developing and monitoring the annual budget and forecasts
• Process bi-monthly payroll, including 401(k) remittances, commission payouts, and year-end filings such as Form 5500
• Support HR-related functions such as onboarding new employees, tracking vacation accruals, and maintaining state employment registrations and SUI rates
• Utilize the association management system (AMS), MemberSuite, to maintain accurate financial and membership records
• Oversee cash management and monitor investment accounts, ensuring alignment with the organization’s financial strategy
• Coordinate PAC contribution processing, reconciliation, and reporting in collaboration with external consultants
• Prepare financial reports and assist the CEO in presenting them to the Finance Committee and Board of Directors
• Maintain and update financial policies and procedures
• Continuously improve internal controls, systems, tools, and reporting processes
• Perform other duties as assigned

Additional Information

This position is fully remote, with limited travel required for staff and board meetings. Candidates in the Eastern or Central time zones are preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Salary range: $120,000–$150,000, based on experience
• Discretionary bonus potential based on performance
• Medical and dental insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Vacation and sick leave policies
• 401(k) retirement plan

If you are a dedicated and detail-oriented finance professional looking for a new challenge as a Director of Finance & Accounting, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; CPA or MBA a plus
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit financial reporting
• Experience working with external auditors
• Knowledge of QuickBooks is required
• Familiarity with Association Management Software (AMS), particularly MemberSuite, preferred; experience with CRMs or enterprise systems preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Experience with financial and operational platforms such as Bill.com, ADP Payroll, Expensify, or similar systems is highly desirable
• Excellent attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills
• Self-motivated, reliable, and comfortable working independently in a remote environment
• Strong analytical and communication skills, including the ability to explain financial information to non-financial audiences
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders