Finance Manager

About Bright Endeavors & New Moms

Bright Endeavors is a social enterprise of New Moms, a
nonprofit organization rooted in the belief that every young family has the potential to thrive. Through paid job training and holistic support, we partner with young moms as they build strong foundations for their families. Every candle we pour lights the path forward for a brighter future.

Position Summary
The Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial operations for Bright Endeavors — including budgeting, forecasting, bookkeeping, inventory costing, compliance, and reporting. You'll collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Operations teams to bring data-informed insights that drive smart business decisions and long-term sustainability.

This is a hands-on role that requires both big-picture thinking and a love for details. It’s a great fit for someone who enjoys improving systems, digging into cost trends, and helping a mission-aligned business thrive.

Location: Bright Endeavors, East Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago

Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week

Starting Salary: $60,000 - $65,000

What a Day Might Look Like

• Reconciling inventory costs after a new product launch
• Meeting with Sales and Operations to review budget projections
• Training staff on how to read a dashboard you designed
• Processing invoices and prepping for a monthly close
• Pitching a system improvement that reduces ordering delays

Key Responsibilities

• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes
• Manage bookkeeping, accounts payable/receivable, and monthly closings
• Monitor inventory and cost of goods sold (COGS); support procurement
• Provide financial analysis and insights to guide decision-making
• Maintain compliance with audits, tax filings, and financial documentation
• Create and improve SOPs to streamline financial and operational workflows
• Build financial literacy across teams through tools and training
• Support program alignment with financial best practices
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Operations to drive business goals
• Occasionally assist with production or events during peak seasons

You’ll Thrive in This Role If You:

• Love turning numbers into strategy and action
• Get satisfaction from clean reconciliations and organized files
• Are energized by collaboration across departments
• Believe in second chances and inclusive employment
• Are excited by the challenge of building efficient, values-based systems

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field required, Masters degree preferred.

• 3+ years of experience in accounting, inventory, financial operations, or cost analysis

• Strong working knowledge of QuickBooks, Google Suite, and Excel

• Experience with Shopify and Katana a plus

• Familiarity with social enterprises or small business environments is highly valued

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, especially with non-finance teams

• Highly organized with strong follow-through and attention to detail

• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance

• Ability to work occasional evenings/weekends as needed

Work Environment: Must be able to sit/stand for up to 8 hours, walk stairs, and lift up to 50 lbs (or perform with reasonable accommodation). Work environments may vary.

Benefits & Perks: We care about the well-being of our team and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical insurance with generous employer contribution

• Dental and vision insurance

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

• Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance – 100% employer-paid

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and resources

• Generous paid time off, as well as 15 paid holidays and half days on Fridays during the summer

• 403b retirement plan with employer match

• Pre-tax transportation benefits

• Professional development stipends and support

• Discounts on Bright Endeavors products

• Free spiritual direction services