Position Information

Deputy Chief Financial/Operating Officer

The North Dakota Retirement and Investment Office (NDRIO) is searching for a strategic finance leader who is ready to make a lasting impact as our next Deputy Chief Financial Officer / Chief Operating Officer (Deputy CFO/COO). This is a key leadership role with wide-reaching influence on public investment strategy, operational excellence, and fiduciary stewardship.

At NDRIO, your work matters. We manage more than $24 billion in investments on behalf of North Dakota's public institutions, serving the Teachers’ Fund for Retirement (TFFR) and the State Investment Board (SIB). Our mission is rooted in integrity, accountability, and service — and we’re looking for a leader who shares our passion for responsible investment management and operational innovation.

This senior leadership position oversees the agency’s accounting team and plays a pivotal role in RIO’s investment operations, financial reporting, budgeting, audit coordination, and risk management. You’ll also serve as a critical connection between the agency, investment managers, and clients — ensuring transparency, compliance, and long-term financial health.

This is an ideal role for someone who thrives at the intersection of financial leadership, operational strategy, and public service. You’ll have the opportunity to shape systems, influence decision-making, and help safeguard the investment funds of the State.

Positions reports to the Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operating Officer.  
Location: This role is located onsite at our office location in Bismarck, ND. 

 

What You’ll Do

  • Lead and support a high-performing team in accounting and investment operations.
  • Oversee financial reporting, budgeting, investment accounting, and risk control frameworks.
  • Manage audit preparation and ensure compliance with state and federal financial regulations.
  • Serve as a key liaison with investment managers and stakeholders to support seamless operations and reporting.
  • Provide strategic support to the CFO/COO and serve as a trusted backup when needed.

Apply online: https://www.rio.nd.gov/careers 
Position: Deputy Chief Financial/Operating Officer
Organization: ND Retirement & Investment Office
Location: Bismarck,  ND 
United States
Salary: $110,000 to $130,000 annual commensurate with experience. This role may be eligible for a discretionary incentive compensation plan based on performance.
Posting Start Date: 6/24/2025
Date Posted: 6/24/2025
Requirements

What We’re Looking For

You’re not just a numbers person — you’re a collaborative problem-solver, a trusted advisor, and a thoughtful communicator. You bring a strong foundation in accounting and finance, with the ability to lead teams and communicate complex data in clear, actionable terms.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field
  • 7+ years of progressive financial/accounting experience
  • 3+ years of leadership or management experience
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.  

Preferred Credentials:

  • MBA, or MS in Accounting or Finance
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license  
  • Experience in investment accounting, financial operations, and public sector finance
  • Proficiency with capital markets, institutional investment portfolios, and risk management
  • Adept at presenting financial analysis to non-financial stakeholders.
  • Excellent communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills and experience working with board or public oversight bodies.  
  • High-level skills in Excel and financial/investment systems.
Status: This listing expires on: 8/23/2025
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Organization Information
Name:
ND Retirement & Investment Office
Address:
PO Box 7100

Bismarck,  ND 58507-7100
United States
Email:
mikopp@nd.gov
Phone:
7013289886
Fax:
Contact:
Missy Kopp
Become A Member

Becoming a member of NASRA offers a unique opportunity to join a community committed to the sound, efficient, and innovative stewardship of public retirement systems. Membership connects you with a network of professionals and experts, providing valuable insights into managing public retirement systems with a focus on sustainability and risk-averse strategies.

By joining NASRA, you gain the tools and resources to enhance the management of public retirement systems, ensuring their long-term success and reliability for generations to come.


 

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