Organization Overview

Lake Street Church is a diverse and inclusive spiritual community. We open our doors to anyone who seeks a meaningful and relevant spiritual experience in a church setting. We practice a progressive Christian theology that embraces people from all different religious denominations and religious traditions. Affiliated with the American Baptist Churches in the USA, Lake Street Church cherishes its non-creedal tradition: we affirm that every person has soul liberty—the complete freedom and responsibility to seek and embody God in one’s life.

Purpose of Job

The Church Financial Administrator reports directly to the Senior Minister for the efficient and effective administration of all church financial and business affairs. This position serves as a steward of the financial resources of the church, focusing on the details of financial management. This position integrates and works with other staff and the congregation directly and through ex-officio participation on the Board, House and Finance Committees. As requested, provides support and reports to other committees, such as Staff Relations and the Annual Giving Campaign. Works directly with volunteers from the congregation and the community in a caring and compassionate way, providing as much support as possible.

Job Responsibilities

Financial Management:

• Manages the receipt, deposit and disbursement of all church funds. 
• Oversees the financial record system for the church. Enters all income and expense data in database (SimpleChurch) and accounting software program (ParishSoft Accounting); prepares all checks and prints for appropriate signature. 
• Oversees posting of donations weekly. Reconciles three bank statements monthly. Manages data and accounting of donations to the church, contribution records, and pledging/giving statements. Handles recording of stock gifts. 
• Manages the purchasing process and maintains vendor relationships.
• Supervises the preparation of monthly financial reports to the Finance Committee. 
• Implements a proper cash flow control to meet obligations. 
• Works with the church Finance Committee, minister and church treasurer to prepare an annual budget for approval by the congregation and implements it upon approval. 
• Prepares the payroll for church employees. 
• Assists Staff Relations Committee in negotiating annual medical coverage for church employees. 
• Ensures all tax reports are promptly paid and timely filed.  

Operations:

• Makes purchasing recommendations/decisions on equipment and services. 
• Collaborates with the Building Supervisor and House Committee in budgeting for all building related expenses. 
• Coordinates with vendor and volunteer workers as needed.
• Contracts for space use with outside groups in coordination with the House Committee; notifies them of church policies on usage; provides tours of space, promotes positive relationships with these groups; coordinates setup requirements and security.

General:

• Obtains advice on legal, business and tax matters that affect the church’s finances.
• Participates in weekly staff meetings and scheduled General Board meetings. 
• Other duties as assigned.
   

Specific Education,  Skills, and Experience Required/Desired

Education: 

• A bachelor's degree, or associate degree from a recognized college. 
• CPA ideal but not required.

Skills:

• Bookkeeping/Accounting experience (3-5 years).
• Practices, emphasizes and fosters effective communication in the church organization.
• The ability to manage a consensus decision-making process and work effectively with volunteers.
• Knowledge of computer systems, including word processing, electronic communication software, membership software, and financial reporting and accounting software (e.g., SimpleChurch, ParishSoft Accounting, Excel, Power Point, Word).
• Timely and consistent attendance and availability in the evenings for committee and church Board meetings in person or via Zoom as required.
• Must be willing to train on the church’s database and accounting systems if not knowledgeable. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Personal Attributes:

• Attention to detail and precision in all church documents.
• A commitment to good interpersonal relations and teamwork in working with staff and volunteers in support of church programs and ministries.
• A commitment to confidentiality regarding all account records, both of the church and staff, and the members.
• Comfort with all forms of diversity.

Working Relationships

The Church Financial Administrator reports directly to the Senior Minister. The Church Administrator also works in collaboration with the staff, church Board and the House and Finance Committees.