Executive Search: Senior Director Finance — Foundation for the Defense of Democracies

The Foundation for the Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a leading nonpartisan research institute dedicated to strengthening U.S. national security and advancing informed public policy. Through rigorous research, strategic analysis, and engagement with policymakers, FDD helps address some of today’s most complex global security challenges.

As FDD continues to grow, we are seeking a Senior Director of Finance to join our leadership team.

Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, this role is an opportunity to shape the financial strategy and operational excellence of a nationally recognized organization. More than leading the accounting function, the Senior Director of Finance serves as a trusted advisor to executive leadership and the Board of Directors, ensuring the financial stewardship, operational discipline, and strategic insight needed to support FDD’s mission.

THE OPPORTUNITY

This role is ideal for a finance leader who enjoys building strong organizations. You’ll oversee the organization’s accounting and financial operations while partnering across the organization to strengthen internal controls, improve processes, support strategic decision-making, and develop a high-performing finance team.

We’re looking for someone who sees finance as more than reporting numbers. You’re energized by solving complex challenges, identifying opportunities for improvement, mentoring others, and helping leadership make informed decisions with confidence.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

The successful candidate will bring:

• An active CPA license and significant nonprofit accounting leadership experience.
• Deep expertise in nonprofit GAAP, financial reporting, audit, compliance, and internal controls.
• Experience partnering with executive leadership and Boards of Directors.
• A collaborative leadership style with a passion for developing people and improving organizations.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement.

WHY FDD?

This is an opportunity to contribute to an organization whose work has meaningful national impact while partnering with accomplished colleagues committed to excellence. If you’re looking for a role where your financial leadership will influence strategy, strengthen operations, and support an important mission, we’d love to hear from you.

Compensation: $175,000–$200,000 annually, plus eligibility for a $10,000 annual performance bonus.

Location: Washington, D.C.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

To help us better understand your interest in this opportunity, we ask that your cover letter clearly articulate your connection to FDD’s mission, why you are interested in the organization’s work, and how your professional experience has prepared you to contribute as Senior Director of Finance.

Priority consideration will be given to candidates who submit a complete application by September 3, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will remain open until the position is filled.

The complete job description can be found following the application link.

View full position details & qualifications at the link below. 

Our Commitment to Equitable & Inclusive Search Practices

Nonprofit HR, Powered by OneDigital, is deeply committed to fostering equitable and inclusive search practices that are seamlessly woven into every aspect of our work. These principles not only shape how we conduct searches but also guide how we advise our clients and support career candidates, ensuring fair and thoughtful hiring processes. By upholding these values, we strengthen talent management capacity across the social impact sector, helping organizations build mission-driven leadership teams that drive meaningful change.

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