Controller / Chief Financial Officer

and the job listing Expires on August 21, 2025

The Richmond Symphony, a cornerstone of Central Virginia's vibrant arts community, is seeking a dynamic and strategic Controller/Chief Financial Officer to join its accomplished leadership team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the financial future of a nationally recognized orchestra that is committed to innovation, artistic excellence, and community engagement. As Controller/Chief Financial Officer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the Symphony's fiscal sustainability, operational excellence, and positive organizational culture, enabling the Symphony to enrich the lives of audiences and participants of all ages.

This is a hands-on, day-to-day role that requires an individual who is both a doer and a strategic thought partner. The successful candidate will be eager to actively manage and execute the organization's financial operations, as well as contribute at the highest level to strategic decision-making. This is not simply a supervisory position; direct involvement in daily work and close management of all critical accounting and financial areas-including payroll-are essential.

The Controller/Chief Financial Officer will work closely with the President & CEO, Board of Directors, Foundation Trustees, and the Symphony's Leadership Team to provide financial leadership, manage human resources functions, and represent the Symphony within the broader community.

The Organization

Founded in 1957, the Richmond Symphony is an innovator known for forward thinking in musical presentation and in demonstrating the future potential of orchestral performance. Now the largest performing arts organization in central Virginia, the Richmond Symphony consists of an orchestra of 69 professional musicians, 30 administrative staff, a 150-voice chorus and more than 180 students in its Youth Orchestra programs. The Richmond Symphony, under the superb direction of Music Director Valentina Peleggi, has experienced a period of growth in artistry and recognized excellence since her arrival in the 2020/21 season. Prioritizing the high caliber of programming has led to truly remarkable experiences for audiences in Richmond, broader educational reach throughout the community, and a variety in programming that connects to Richmonders, and attracts tourists to visit the region. As the Symphony continues to expand its impact, the Controller/Chief Financial Officer will be instrumental in supporting its mission and strategic growth.

Responsibilities

Strategic Financial Leadership and Management:

• Develop and implement financial strategies to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
• Oversee all financial operations for both the Richmond Symphony and Richmond Symphony Foundation, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, payroll, and financial reporting.
• Ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial records and systems.
• Manage relationships with external partners such as banks, auditors, vendors, and financial advisors.
• Identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost optimization.
• Lead the annual budgeting process and develop financial forecasting models to support decision-making.
• Monitor performance against budget and forecast, providing regular analysis and updates to leadership and governing boards.

Payroll Management:

• Extensive knowledge and experience in processing complicated and involved payrolls is required. This position will oversee and directly process a multifaceted payroll for a large and diverse organization.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and reporting requirements, including tax filings and benefit plan disclosures.
• Implement risk management strategies to protect financial stability and employee well-being.
• Oversee labor law and employee benefits compliance, including ERISA and state-specific requirements.

Human Resources Oversight:

• Supervise a Human Resource Manager who will be hired by the next Controller/Chief Financial Officer as the role is currently vacant.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures aligned with the Symphony's mission and values.
• Oversee talent acquisition, onboarding, retention, and employee development.
• Manage employee relations, performance evaluations, and compensation programs.
• Administer competitive and cost-effective benefits programs.
• Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging throughout the organization.

Organizational Leadership and Culture:

• Foster a workplace culture that embodies the Symphony's core values: Passion, Quality, Innovation, Welcoming, and Inclusion.
• Collaborate on strategic initiatives and provide organizational leadership through participation in board and committee meetings.
• Maintain a visible presence at concerts, events, and community activities.
• Represent the Symphony at professional meetings and cultural events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related field; MBA and/or CPA preferred.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in fiscal management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, preferably in a nonprofit or arts organization.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit finance and accounting principles.
• Experience in human resources management, including policy development and implementation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for the arts and commitment to the Symphony's mission and values.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities.
• Willingness to work on location in downtown Richmond and at performance or event sites.
• Availability for a robust schedule of performances, donor engagements, and community events on evenings and weekends.
• Ability to pass a background check and legally eligible to work in the United States.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Innovative and strategic thinker with a track record of developing creative financial solutions.
• Collaborative leader, able to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong ethical standards and commitment to transparency.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, QuickBooks, payroll software, and related tools.
• Capable of handling complex budgets, payroll, cash flow, and financial approvals.
• Calm and clear communicator, especially in high-pressure situations.
• Committed to ongoing learning and staying current with financial and HR best practices.

Compensation and Benefits

• $125k to $130k starting annual salary.
• Annual bonus potential of up to 4% of gross salary based on attainment of agreed-upon goals set in advance.
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Retirement benefits upon eligibility.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave policy.
• Instrument insurance and access to concerts.
• Great organizational culture and work environment.

Location

This position requires in-person work based in Richmond, Virginia, with limited remote work available as the schedule allows. In-person presence at the Symphony's downtown office, as well as evening and weekend availability for concerts and community events, is expected.

To Apply

Qualified candidates should submit a resume outlining their qualifications and interest in the Controller/Chief Financial Officer position by July 31, 2025. This process will be expedited, so early applications are welcomed. Contact Tom Prest at for questions or clarification.

Confidentiality

All inquiries and applications will be managed with the highest degree of confidentiality. Expressions of interest will remain confidential until the final stages of the search.

The Richmond Symphony is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Disclaimer: The above statements describe the general nature and level of work expected of the Controller/Chief Financial Officer. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Position expectations may be subject to change as organizational needs evolve.

For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.