Vice President of Finance & Operations

THE ORGANIZATION:

The Altman Foundation, founded in 1913, is an independent, private grantmaking foundation with approximately $295 million in investments (as of December 31, 2025). Based in New York City, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing equity and opportunity by supporting programs and institutions that enrich the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities across the five boroughs.

The Foundation’s mission reflects the vision and values of its founder, Benjamin Altman, a son of immigrant parents who built B. Altman & Co. into one of New York City’s most respected department stores. Known for his commitment to service, generosity to employees, and dedication to the welfare of New Yorkers, Altman established the Foundation through his will to benefit charitable and educational institutions in New York City. His early support for hospitals, education, and the arts continues to shape the Foundation’s priorities today. Guided by this legacy, the Altman Foundation focuses its grantmaking in four core areas: Education; Health; Strengthening Communities; and Cultural Engagement, Youth Development, and the Arts, as well as an overarching commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector.

As of 2025, it has awarded more than $419 million in grants, contributing to a stronger, more equitable New York City and carrying forward Benjamin Altman’s enduring tradition of service.

The mission of the Altman Foundation is to advance equity and opportunity for individuals, families, and communities in New York City.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

The Altman Foundation is seeking a mission-driven, strategic, and operationally astute Vice President, Finance & Operations to join its executive leadership team at a pivotal moment. Following the retirement of its highly respected CFO after 12 years of distinguished service and the 2024 appointment of an outsourced Chief Investment Officer(OCIO), the Foundation is taking this opportunity to reimagine the role with a broader, future-facing mandate. The dual transitions present an opportunity to build on a strong financial and operational foundation while updating the role for current and future organizational needs. This newly defined position reflects the Foundation’s commitment to long-term financial stewardship, operational excellence, and adaptive infrastructure to support its enduring mission: to advance equity and expand opportunity across New York City’s five boroughs.

ROLE + RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Financial Leadership & Planning

• Serve as a primary advisor to the President and Board on financial strategy, sustainability, and resource allocation.
• Lead long-range financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and scenario analysis to support organizational priorities.
• Present clear, timely decision-ready financial information and recommendations to the Finance Committee, Audit Committee, and Board.

Accounting & Audit

• Supervise the Controller and manage the day-to-day accounting, internal reporting, and financial controls.
• Coordinate the annual audit and tax compliance with external auditors.
• Review quarterly and annual financial statements and monitor compliance requirements.
• Support the Audit Committee in fulfilling its governance responsibilities.
• While the Controller manages day-to-day accounting execution, the Vice President remains closely engaged and steps in as needed during audit cycles, transitions, or peak periods to ensure quality and continuity.

Investments (Oversight and Coordination)

• Serve as the primary internal liaison to the Foundation’s outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO).
• Collaborate with the OCIO and Finance Committee Chair to keep Finance Committee informed of manager performance, liquidity, and market trends.
• Execute investment decisions made by the Finance Committee that fall outside the OCIO’s scope. • Coordinate planning and preparation of investment reporting and materials for committee meetings.
• Ensure the Investment Policy Statement is updated, as needed.
• Support Program-Related and Mission-Related Investment initiation and monitoring.
• Maintain relationships with banking partners and oversee Foundation’s line of credit.

Operations & Infrastructure

• Ensure efficient and reliable internal operations across office management, vendor relationships, and facilities.
• Work closely with the Office Manager and outsourced partners to improve workflows and ensure seamless execution.
• Use technology to enhance efficiency, transparency, and internal coordination.
• Oversee headquarters building renewal and related facilities matters as needed.

Human Resources

• Provide senior oversight of human resources in partnership with President and Compensation Committee.
• Oversee annual benefits renewals, employee enrollment, and regulatory filings in collaboration with external advisors

The annual salary range is up to $250,000, plus benefits.

MISSION CRITICAL OBJECTIVES | YEAR ONE

1. Ensure strong financial stewardship by overseeing core finance functions, including budgeting, reporting, audit, and compliance, and by supporting effective governance with the Finance and Audit Committees.
2. Develop a clear understanding of the Foundation’s financial, grants management, and operational systems and workflows, and lead prioritized improvements that strengthen efficiency, coordination, and risk management in support of effective decision-making and grantmaking.
3. Advance the implementation of technology improvements and support ongoing cybersecurity upgrades, working with internal and external partners to ensure systems are secure, reliable, and aligned with organizational needs.
4. Partner with the President and technology leaders to foster a thoughtful learning agenda around technology and AI, exploring practical, responsible uses that enhance staff efficiency, information gathering, and support for grantees.