Chief Financial & Operations Officer
WHAT WE DO
For more than 20 years, Library Foundation SD has been a transformative force in evolving the San Diego Public Library system from a traditional book provider into a dynamic hub for learning, growth, and opportunity. Established in 2002, the Foundation has raised over $160 million in private funds to enhance library programs, expand collections, improve facilities, and support the library’s mission.
With a $3.5 million annual budget, the Foundation’s impact is far-reaching. It was integral to the completion of the iconic Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common, the addition and renovation of library branches, and the expansion of collections across the system. The Foundation has led initiatives such as Books Unbanned, Library NExT, and Career On-Line High School, and guided the creation of the visionary Library Master Plan. Additionally, the Foundation champions programs such as Summer Reading, which engaged 30,000 youth in 2025, preparing them for a successful school year.
Through relentless advocacy and partnerships, the Foundation has secured crucial funding to prevent budget cuts, avoid branch closures, and meet City matching fund goals for 19 consecutive years. Its work in the impact areas of social justice and equity, early childhood, education and lifelong learning, digital learning and access, economic and workforce development, and cultural and civic engagement continues to empower individuals, enrich lives, and strengthen communities throughout San Diego. Thanks to the Foundation’s support of the READ/San Diego program, 22,000 adults have gained literacy skills, helping to break barriers to success. Since 2013, the Foundation’s advocacy efforts have successfully secured a 66% increase in the library’s operating budget, ensuring the library can continue to provide essential services and resources for all San Diegans.
LEADERSHIP & CULTURE
Since 2019, Patrick Stewart has served as CEO of Library Foundation SD. With a distinguished career in literacy, arts, and culture, he has led organizations such as Words Alive and the Atlas Performing Arts Center. A committed community leader, Patrick actively collaborates with regional nonprofits and serves on several boards, driving positive impact in philanthropy and the arts. The Foundation thrives on the energy and enthusiasm of its small, close-knit team of 15, where fun, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose are central to their work. This supportive culture fosters strong relationships and contributes to an exceptional work environment. With an average staff tenure of 8.5 years, the Foundation has cultivated a team culture of stability, loyalty, and a deep commitment to long-term growth and impact.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
- Salary – $150,000 — $165,000
- Medical and dental insurance
- 401(k) match
- PTO: 16 paid days off, 12 paid holidays
- Cell phone reimbursement
- Work from home stipend
LOCATION
This is a hybrid role with an office located at the Central Library in Downtown San Diego.
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the CEO, the Chief Financial & Operations Officer (CFO/COO) serves as the CEO’s strategic partner responsible for driving the Foundation’s financial performance, operational excellence, and modernization. Reporting directly to the CEO, this executive translates financial analysis, projections, and cost data into high-level strategy. The CFO/COO will lead all core financial functions, governance, and risk, while simultaneously spearheading operational efficiencies through continuous systems improvement. This individual will be highly collaborative, adaptable, and flexible. This leader will be a key part of ensuring the Foundation’s continued stability and long-term potential for impact, such as leading the investment strategy, continuing successful partnerships with local and national organizations, and supporting additional revenue sources such as the Library Shop. The CFO/COO will lead with empathy and care for the communities the library supports; demonstrate a collaborative and inclusive style with staff, board members, and other stakeholders; and leverage previous experience of elevating and modernizing the financial and operational functions of an organization.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Financial Leadership & Partnership
- Partner with the CEO on all strategic and operational issues, providing high-level recommendations based on financial analysis.
- Lead strategic planning and budgeting, overseeing long-term budgetary planning, cost management, and the creation of the organizational budget.
- Direct executive focus by owning internal operations, allowing the CEO to focus on external relations, fundraising, and partnership development.
- Position the organization as a tech-forward nonprofit, driving modernization, cross-functional leadership, and AI integration.
Core Financial Management and Governance
- Oversee all financial operations and Reporting, ensuring the timely and complete preparation of all internal/external financial reports and operational metrics.
- Ensure financial integrity by maintaining GAAP compliance, developing internal controls, and coordinating all audit activities.
- Manage cash flow and transactions, including forecasting, overseeing all bank/investment accounts, receivables, payables, and payroll.
- Lead investment strategy by formally launching and managing the Investment Committee, developing an Investment Policy, and setting investment goals.
- Engage with the Board of Trustees and manage the Finance and Audit Committees regarding financial trends, operational changes, and risk.
- Engage with and manage the financial relationship between the Library Foundation, San Diego Public Library, and the City of San Diego.
- Ensure timely tax and regulatory compliance (e.g., 990s, sales tax).
Operational Excellence and Systems Modernization
- Drive systems modernization by continuously improving finance procedures and administrative systems, including the integration of advanced technology for automated reporting.
- Oversee general operations and IT support, including vendor contracts and essential facility maintenance.
- Manage HR functions including compliance, training, and evaluating/negotiating all employee benefits.
- Coordinate risk mitigation and Insurance by managing all business insurance plans and overseeing the new business insurance broker onboarding.
Team and Program Management
- Develop, manage, train, and lead direct report staff members.
- Manage all program and project budgets, overseeing departmental budgets and the proper management of restricted gifts and grants.
- Lead policy review by conducting a full update of all organizational policies and the Employee Handbook.
Library Shop Oversight
- Oversee the library shop’s staff, financials, and operational infrastructure.
- Ensure retail compliance (e.g., sales tax, nonprofit regulations) and manage the property tax exemption application.
- Optimize retail operations through inventory system audits and vendor management.
BACKGROUND PROFILE
- Passionate about libraries as vital community hubs, with a personal connection that underscores their transformative impact and dedication to promoting equity and inclusion.
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; an MBA and/or CPA is preferred.
- Demonstrated expertise in strategic, hands-on financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and business planning, preferably within a nonprofit organization.
- Proven experience managing audits, ensuring legal compliance, and maintaining strong internal controls.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex financial data to senior management, the board, and external partners.
- Proficiency with financial software and an aptitude for leveraging technology to enhance productivity.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY, PLEASE CONTACT:
Liliane Lendvai, Senior Director, Blair Search Partners 1855 1st Ave., Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92101 liliane@blairsearchpartners.com.