Chief Financial Officer

Chief Financial Officer

The Position : Chief Financial Officer

Reports to : Chief Executive Officer

Location : San Jose, California

Overview

Momentum for Health ("Momentum") has a long history of addressing behavioral health needs in the community, grounded in core beliefs that emphasize the uniqueness of individuals, the potential for change, and the importance of respect. Today, Momentum is one of the largest providers of behavioral health services, meeting the needs of adults, in Santa Clara County. The organization is committed to innovation, evidence-based treatment, and advocacy to reduce stigma around mental health, partnering with clients throughout their recovery journeys.

A Compelling Leadership Opportunity

Momentum for Health's incoming Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") will participate in the shaping of the future of the organization at a pivotal time of new CEO leadership, organizational transformation, and an era of nationwide reform for behavioral health services.

This CFO role at Momentum is an opportunity for a seasoned finance professional to be a confidante, advisor, and thought partner to the CEO on leading strategic organizational growth while ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the organization. This CFO is a key member of the Momentum for Health Executive Team providing strategic thought partnership and guidance on all business matters at organizational and functional levels. As a member of the Executive Team, this professional plays a critical role in the overall management of the organization leading a dedicated finance team, participating in informed decision making with peers on the Executive Team, and collaborating with an engaged Board of Directors.

Local Origins

Founded during a time when mental health treatment primarily occurred in hospitals, Momentum's early efforts aimed to shift care from institutions to community-based settings. In the 1950s, California's state hospitals housed over 36,000 individuals, often without due process. Research began to highlight the ineffectiveness and potential harm of institutionalization, prompting a change in public opinion and the development of community-focused treatment options, supported by the Short-Doyle Act and the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act (LPS).

In Santa Clara County, three key agencies laid the groundwork for what is now Momentum for Health :

• Avenues to Mental Health (1953) : Pioneered behavioral health care with California's first halfway house and a research-focused residential program.
• Miramonte Mental Health (1962) : Developed impactful programs for day treatment and family support.
• Community Companions (1973) : Fostered volunteer relationships with individuals facing serious mental illnesses and offered extensive outpatient services.

By the late 1990s, the mental health system had become fragmented. In 1997, the three agencies merged to form Alliance for Community Care, enhancing service delivery, cultural competence, and operational efficiency. This organization rebranded to Momentum for Mental Health in 2007, reflecting a focus on clients' recovery journeys.

In response to changing community needs, Momentum expanded its offerings throughout the 2010s, including programs for co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions. This evolution culminated in a name change to Momentum for Health in 2020, emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being.

Programs for co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions that are currently offered by Momentum for Health include :

The Opportunity

The CFO operates as a strategic partner to the CEO and the Executive Team, helping define and operationalize strategies and plans that ensure financial health, support the organization's mission, and enable long-term financial viability of the agency in a changing world.

The ideal CFO candidate will have a strong background in nonprofit financial strategy and leadership, including financial planning and accounting, budgeting and forecasting, cash flow management, and risk mitigation. This position is an exciting leadership opportunity to partner with the CEO on strategy and play a leadership role in building and scaling operations across multiple service lines.

A proven track record in nonprofit financial leadership, government contracts, and knowledge of the behavioral health sector, will be of high value. It's an exciting time for Momentum for Health as the agency prepares for a future with a growing demand for services, navigates uncertainties around government funding levels, and explores new partnership opportunities and service offerings.

Organizational Leadership

The organization has an annual operating budget of $75 million, a staff of 548, and is governed by a 17-member Board of Directors. The CFO is a direct report to the CEO and a member of the Executive Team.

The Executive Team members include :

The CFO will be responsible for a staff of 28 and four direct reports, including :

Responsibilities

Financial Management

Leadership and Management

Information Technology

Education : Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related degree required. Master's degree in business administration, finance, accounting or related degree preferred. CPA certification and audit firm experience preferred, not mandatory.

Experience :