Director of Finance

Organization Summary

Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) is a progressive, grassroots membership organization that supports family farmers and rural communities. Grounded in the values of education, cooperation, and legislation, MFU works at the county, state and national levels to promote economically viable family farms, strengthen rural communities, support new and beginning farmers, and ensure the voices of family farmers are heard by policymakers.

Minnesota Farmers Union (501c5) and the companion organizations Minnesota Farmers Union Foundation (501c3) and Service Corp (for-profit entity) work on a variety of projects and initiatives to improve the lives of family farmers and the communities in which they live.

Position Overview

Minnesota Farmers Union is seeking a highly skilled and mission-driven Director of Finance to lead and oversee our financial operations. This role is central to ensuring the organization’s financial integrity, transparency, and sustainability. This is also a hands-on role with duties specific to both day-to-day accounting operations and higher-level financial responsibilities.

The Director of Finance will work closely with the president and senior leadership to oversee MFU’s finance and accounting functions. This position will lead the annual budgeting process, audit process, and IRS tax filing process. The Director of Finance will manage day-to-day accounting functions, lead financial reporting and month-end close processes, and support strategic financial planning. This position will ensure accurate and timely dissemination of financial information. This position also plays a key leadership role in strengthening internal systems and mentoring staff, helping MFU continue to grow and serve its members effectively.

Key Responsibilities

  • Ensures accurate and timely dissemination of financial information, including internal and external financial reports, annual audits, and budgets across entities.
  • Lead month-end and year-end close processes, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reporting, including quarterly reporting to the Executive Committee, MFUF Board, and semi-annual reporting to the full board.
  • Oversee grant-related accounting, including tracking restricted and unrestricted funds, ensuring compliance with grant requirements, preparing financial reports for funders including public and private entities, and supporting grant budgeting and audit processes.
  • Support and advise staff leadership in creating and managing departmental budgets, offering financial analysis and guidance to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
  • Perform all core accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger activities.
  • Manage payroll specific HR functions, utilizing Human Resources Information Systems and accounting systems while identifying and implementing technology solutions to improve efficiency, accuracy, collaboration, and compliance
  • Prepare and review accurate, timely financial statements in compliance with applicable standards.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard organizational assets.
  • Monitor cash flow and financial performance, providing insights and recommendations.
  • Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.
  • Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Experience with nonprofit accounting for a mid- to large-scale organization utilizing GAAP and nonprofit accounting principles (experience with fund accounting preferred)
  • Strong project management skills, with a proactive mindset and interest in improving systems and processes
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred, CPA or advanced degree preferred, and 5+ years of accounting experience, including leadership responsibilities
  • Demonstrated experience with financial reporting, audits, and internal controls
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Commitment to MFU’s mission and values supporting family farmers and rural communities
  • Proficiency with accounting software and financial systems

Compensation & Schedule

Salary commensurate with experience: $90,000-120,000. Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with flexibility required for occasional evening, weekend, and travel responsibilities. This position reports to the MFU President

Benefits

Minnesota Farmers Union offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical Insurance: 100% employer-paid employee premiums (base plan); 50% dependent coverage (four plan options)
  • Dental Insurance: 100% employer-paid employee premiums; 50% dependent coverage
  • Life Insurance: Employer-paid coverage equal to 100% of salary
  • Long-Term Disability: 100% employer paid
  • Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave: Participation in the State of Minnesota program; MFU pays 50% of required premiums
  • 401(k): 3% employer contribution regardless of employee participation
  • Flexible scheduling available, with the expectation of regular in-person work; remote-only applicants will not be considered
  • Paid Time Off:
    • Vacation: 10 days (years 1–2), 15 days (years 3–9), 20 days (10+ years)
    • Earned Sick & Safe Time: Up to 80 hours annually
  • Holidays: Approximately 24 paid holidays per year, including early summer Friday closures

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter and resume to glen@mfu.org. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with a priority deadline of May 15th.