Introduction

Overall estimated read time: 12 minutes

Last updated: July 2021

Accounting and budgeting can seem like a necessary evil to many people in social impact - a complex process that is required by boards, donors, and reporting requirements. But it is far more than that. At its best, finance is deeply strategic and core to the planning process of any social impact organization. The finance team works closely with the fundraising team and the leadership of the organization to inform critical decisions. Ineffective leadership on the finance team can be disastrous for an organization. If you have an interest in finance, supporting the work of a mission you care about is a great way to feel like the work you do really matters! 

If this career path sounds exciting to you, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about working in finance. To inform our work, Second Day has spoken to experts in the field and gathered the best information out there for upcoming graduates and recent graduates. First, the guide will take you through the different entry-level positions to look out for in this field. Then, we’ll provide tips on actually getting those jobs in finance. We’ll finish with our next three steps: actionable items you can take to make progress towards finding your first job in finance. Let’s get started!

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  • 1

    Introduction

    • So you want to work in Finance in Social Impact?
  • 2

    What types of jobs exist in finance?

    • Day-to-day roles and responsibilities of a finance professional

    • Finance specific role distinctions

    • Finance by the numbers (pay and hours)
  • 3

    How to get a job in finance

    • Learning technical finance skills

    • Applying for roles

    • What about volunteering?

    • Exit opportunities

    • Next three steps