| THE POSITION This position is the lead financial officer of The Windward School. The position has primary responsibility for managing and facilitating the functions of the business office, which includes payroll and vendor management. The position also provides support to the Head of School in the execution of his/her duties to facilitate and forward institutional advancement. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) reports directly to and serves as a strategic partner to the Head of School and is a member of the Executive Team. The CFO serves on the Board of Trustees Finance Committee, as well as other committees as directed by the Board. The CFO provides leadership and management of the School’s finances and is responsible for the supervision, coordination, and administration of all aspects of the Business Office, plant and facilities, risk management, employee management, and policy management. In partnership with the Head of School, the CFO maintains relationships with banks, professional accountants, legal counsel, and insurance companies. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES - Support the Head of School and the Board of Trustees in the development of school policies and procedures that support the mission of the school and safeguard the well-being of the school and its employees;
- Develop and manage, with the Head of School and Finance Committee, the annual operating budget, the long-range financial plan and budgets related to special projects and/or capital campaigns;
- Prepare regular financial reports for the Finance Committee and the Board which reflect the financial position of the school in comparison with the approved budget.
- Oversee all school purchasing, cash management, financial investments, banking activities, payroll and benefits program;
- Secure an annual audit of the school's financial records and financial positions.
- Oversee the preparation of financial records for annual independent audit and assist the audit team in preparation of form 990 and other returns, including the form 5500;
- Supervise the work of the business office staff and use standard accounting and bookkeeping procedures, to keep an accurate continuous record of the cash and financial position of the school and manage the financial operation of the school so that the institution remains financially stable;
- Work in collaboration with the Director of Human Resources to maintain and improve human resources functions, including assessing, writing, and implementing appropriate personnel policies; overseeing the preparation of payroll and benefits programs including health insurance and retirement programs; overseeing the administration of hiring, retention, termination, and personnel records; ensure all programs are in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations;
- Provide a regular report of expenditures for use of each department within the school;
- Manage risk at the school to ensure the safety of personnel and students in their use of the facilities and to maintain appropriate levels of insurance to protect the property and to cover the liability of the school; and
- Oversee the administration of financial assistance awards as a member of the Financial Aid Committee, working with the Head of School, the Associate Head of School, and the Director of Admission; support the re-enrollment process for students overseeing the compilation and mailing of enrollment contracts.
OTHER DUTIES - To represent the school at various regional, state, and national associations relative to the role of being the lead financial officer.
- To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
- To support the school and its leadership.
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE - Understanding of and commitment to Windward’s mission and core values
- Complete knowledge of not-for-profit administration and accounting practices
- Excellent skills in oral and written communications
- Strong understanding of employment law and practices
- Strong understanding of school administration
- Customer-oriented with great people skills
- Ability to work with and get along well with others
- Ability to balance multiple tasks and projects, and handle time deadlines
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE - Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting/Finance Preferred
- CPA or related experience
- 10+ years of related experience
APPLICATION DETAILS Exceptional candidates with the skills and experience required to serve as a transformational leader at The Windward School should apply (via the link below) by submitting a cover letter and resume to the attention of, Mr. Jamie Williamson, Head of School. No phone calls please. |