Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

In this key role, you will be an integral part of the senior leadership team, developing and executing financial strategies that support the Cooperative's business plan and strategic direction. The ideal candidate will bring strong financial leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to translate complex financial information into clear, actionable guidance. If you are a collaborative leader who values accountability, long-term planning, and service to members, we encourage you to join our team! This position has a residency requirement to live within 35 miles of Madison, SD.

A Day in the Life of Our Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

As a valued member of our senior leadership team, you help shape East River's future by providing strategic financial insight, identifying risks and opportunities, and supporting sound decision making. East River's senior leadership team enjoys a collaborative environment, contributing collectively to strategy development and execution. In the CFO role, you develop financial strategies, evaluate economic trends, forecast capital needs, establish critical measurements, and identify resources and action plans that position the Cooperative to meet its short- and long-term goals. You also provide clear financial information and recommendations to the CEO/GM, Board of Directors, employees, and member systems.

You provide leadership and direction to the Planning and Finance Division consisting of two (2) department managers and 14 professional staff. You bring the team together around shared priorities, provide clear direction, encourage employee growth, and create a culture of engagement and shared accountability. You also help ensure East River's accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, rates, billing, and related financial functions operate effectively and meet the evolving needs of the Cooperative and its members. Through collaborative leadership and trusted relationships with employees, member systems, the Board of Directors, and industry partners, you help strengthen East River's financial position and support long-term success. Your key responsibilities include:

• Providing executive-level financial guidance and contributing to senior leadership decisions related to Cooperative goals, risks, business direction, and communication strategies.
• Developing and recommending financial strategies, plans, programs, and resources that align with East River's strategic plan and help achieve its short- and long-term goals.
• Monitoring financial performance, analyzing results, addressing variances, and establishing meaningful measures that support well-informed decisions.
• Coordinating the annual work plan and budget with the CEO/GM and overseeing division activities to ensure they support approved objectives.
• Preparing proposals for special loads and, in consultation with the CEO/GM, negotiating agreements with other utilities as appropriate.
• Leading, engaging, and developing division employees by setting clear expectations, offering constructive feedback and coaching, and helping them achieve departmental, divisional, and Cooperative goals.
• Fostering a collaborative work environment and encouraging high-quality customer support across the administrative, financial, rate, and contract services provided by the division.
• Representing East River through presentations to the Board, meetings with member systems, industry and community activities, and assigned Managers Advisory Committee meetings and subcommittees.

Showcase Your Knowledge, Abilities, and Expertise. Do you have?

• A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related business field.
• At least 10 years' experience in finance and accounting, with at least five (5) years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, cost control principles, and long-term financial planning.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate financial performance, identify risks and opportunities, and develop effective strategies and solutions.
• Exceptional leadership, relationship management, communication, influence, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency with computer technology and spreadsheet analysis.
• Valid driver's license.

This incredible job opportunity awaits you at our main campus in Madison, South Dakota. Madison offers a warm and welcoming small-town atmosphere combined with modern amenities that make it the perfect place for you and your family. Take advantage of great resources like the state-of-the-art Madison Regional Hospital, experience the innovative campus of Dakota State University, enjoy a thriving community center, and more.

Benefits that Matter

At East River, we value your well-being and want you to thrive. That's why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Retirement pension plan and contribution to a 401(k) savings plan
• Medical insurance with employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Access to a wellness program and financial planning resources
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Opportunities to support community activities and charitable events

Want to learn more about East River? Visit our and hear what our current employees have to say.

Questions? Contact or (605) 256-4536.

Applications accepted through November 1, 2026, with interviews expected to begin during the week of November 16.