We are looking for an experienced Director of Finance to lead financial operations and provide strategic guidance for a public-sector organization in Columbia, South Carolina. This role partners closely with executive leadership to strengthen budgeting, reporting, compliance, and long-range financial planning. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of governmental accounting, strong leadership skills, and the ability to translate complex financial information into clear recommendations for decision-makers.

Responsibilities:

Lead the finance function by directing team members and supervisors, setting priorities, and ensuring high-quality execution across daily operations. Organize departmental workflows, allocate resources effectively, and communicate timelines and expectations to support timely completion of financial activities. Develop and uphold sound financial practices, monitor compliance with regulatory and funding requirements, and prepare reporting data to support analysis and decision-making. Partner with executive leadership to shape annual budgets, evaluate funding needs, and provide financial insight based on historical results and current performance trends. Oversee accounting, payroll, and financial recordkeeping to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with generally accepted government accounting standards. Prepare and present financial updates, budget information, and key performance indicators to executive leaders, board stakeholders, and other governing parties as needed. Manage contracts, leases, agreements, grant-related financial activity, and investment oversight while safeguarding the organization's financial interests. Coordinate external audits, support required filings, and ensure adherence to applicable federal, state, and local financial regulations. Monitor organizational risk exposure, maintain appropriate insurance coverage, and advise leadership on financial implications of operational decisions. Contribute to long-term strategic planning by offering financial recommendations, forecasting insights, and guidance that supports organizational goals. 7+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including leadership responsibility within a complex organization. Strong knowledge of governmental accounting principles, budget administration, financial reporting, and audit coordination. Experience overseeing core accounting functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger management. Proficiency with accounting and financial systems. Demonstrated ability to analyze financial data, prepare reports, and present recommendations to executive leadership and governing bodies. Familiarity with grant oversight, compliance requirements, and financial policies tied to public or regulated funding sources. Effective leadership, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage teams, deadlines, and competing priorities. Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use and Privacy Notice .