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Director of Finance
New York City, NY
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The Director of Finance will oversee the day-to-day financial, administrative, and operational functions of a family office real estate entity. This role will be responsible for ensuring that the financial records and business operations maintain the highest standards, including adhering to GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). The individual will manage multiple areas including accounting, finance, insurance, human resources, refinancing of real estate transactions, bookkeeping, leasing, legal oversight, and the execution of construction projects. This role also involves working closely with external advisors, including counsel, auditors, and tax professionals, to ensure compliance, integrity, and the continued success of the family office’s operations.


Responsibilities:


Accounting & Finance:

  • Oversee all financial operations for the family office’s real estate portfolio, ensuring compliance with GAAP.
  • Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, reports, and budgets.
  • Supervise the company’s bookkeeping functions to ensure accuracy and timely reporting.
  • Ensure proper accounting of real estate transactions, including acquisitions, sales, leasing, and refinancing.
  • Oversee cash flow management, including the establishment of appropriate reserves for operating and capital expenditures.
  • Work with external auditors and tax professionals to ensure timely preparation and filing of financial statements, tax returns, and other necessary filings.
  • Develop financial models for potential real estate investments and transactions.
  • Evaluate financing options, debt management, and refinancing of properties within the portfolio.

Insurance Management:

  • Oversee the family office's insurance needs, including both property and casualty insurance for real estate holdings, as well as medical insurance for employees.
  • Ensure that all properties in the real estate portfolio are adequately insured, and work with brokers to evaluate policy renewals and coverage.
  • Coordinate insurance claims, working with both internal teams and external stakeholders (e.g., adjusters, legal counsel) as necessary.

Human Resources (HR):

  • Oversee HR functions for the family office employees (approximately 20 people), including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and compliance with labor laws.
  • Ensure all employee benefits programs (medical, retirement, etc.) are in place and effectively managed.
  • Develop and implement HR policies and procedures to foster a positive work environment.
  • Manage payroll and employee records, ensuring compliance with tax and legal requirements.

Real Estate & Project Management:

  • Oversee leasing activities, including negotiation and execution of leases for office space and residential properties.
  • Work with architects, contractors, and construction teams to ensure smooth execution of real estate development and renovation projects.
  • Supervise ongoing property maintenance and capital improvements, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
  • Maintain the integrity of financial records for real estate assets, including rent roll, operating expenses, and capital expenditures.

Legal & External Relations:

  • Serve as the primary liaison with external legal counsel, auditors, and tax professionals.
  • Manage legal documentation related to real estate transactions, leases, and other family office agreements.
  • Ensure legal compliance in all aspects of family office operations, including employment law, real estate law, and tax law.
  • Maintain relationships with external service providers, contractors, vendors, and other key partners.

Family Office Oversight:

  • Maintain a comprehensive understanding of the family office’s objectives, ensuring that business operations align with these goals.
  • Provide leadership and strategic advice to family members regarding investment opportunities, financial planning, and business decisions.
  • Ensure effective communication across departments and with external advisors to promote a cohesive work environment.


Qualifications:


Education & Certifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Real Estate, or a related field. A Master’s degree or MBA is a plus.
  • CPA, CFA, or other relevant professional certification preferred.
  • Real estate accounting/finance is required.

Experience:

  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in accounting, finance, or operations, preferably with exposure to real estate transactions and family office environments.
  • Proven experience managing finance teams, human resources functions, and external vendors or contractors.
  • Experience working with legal, insurance, and tax advisors in a real estate context.
  • Strong track record of managing and executing large real estate transactions, refinances, and investments.

Skills & Competencies:

  • Financial Acumen: Deep knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, accounting procedures, and real estate investment strategies.
  • Project Management: Strong project management skills, especially related to construction, renovations, and large-scale property management.
  • Communication: Ability to effectively communicate complex financial information to non-financial family members and stakeholders.
  • Leadership: Proven ability to manage, mentor, and motivate a team, as well as work closely with external advisors.
  • Problem Solving: Excellent analytical skills and the ability to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and able to maintain high standards of accuracy in financial records and reports.
  • Legal and Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding of relevant laws, including real estate law, tax law, and labor regulations.

Technical Skills:

  • Proficiency with accounting and finance software (e.g., QuickBooks, Yardi, Sage, etc.).
  • Advanced Excel skills and experience with financial modeling.
  • Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, or similar).


Personal Attributes:

  • High integrity and discretion in handling sensitive financial and personal information.
  • Strong work ethic with a hands-on approach to problem-solving and operations.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic family office environment.
  • Flexibility and adaptability to shifting priorities in a private office setting.
  • Must have a stable job history
  • Team player able to multi-task


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