About The Elisabeth Morrow School

The Elisabeth Morrow School is an independent, co-educational day school, located just minutes outside of Manhattan, serving students from Preschool through Grade 8. The Elisabeth Morrow School’s shared purpose is to provide exemplary academics and character development in a diverse and inclusive child-centered community, inspiring students to become curious scholars, ethical leaders, and global citizens.

Summary

The Elisabeth Morrow School seeks an experienced Chief Financial and Operating Officer. This dual role will oversee both financial management and operations, playing a key part in shaping the future of the institution. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of financial expertise and operational leadership. The CFOO will report directly to the Head of School and work closely with the Board of Trustees, senior leadership, and key school stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

The ideal candidate will be a creative self-starter with a practical, solution-oriented mindset and a proven ability to take initiative and drive results.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required.
• Experience: At least 7 years of senior financial management experience. Independent school experience is required.
• Skills: Strong communication skills, strategic thinking, problem-solving ability, and a commitment to equity and inclusion. Proven ability to manage complex financial systems and lead cross-functional teams. Complete knowledge of not-for-profit administration, accounting policies, procedures, practices, and software programs.
• Leadership: Experience working with boards, senior administrators, and diverse stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time, executive-level position with a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with matching contributions
• Life and disability insurance
• 12 PTO days year-round and 20 vacation days (July-June)
• Tuition remission for employee children (EMS School and/or camps)

Responsibilities

Finance, Strategy, and Planning

• Lead strategic planning and analysis for school finances and operations.
• Oversee the development of the annual operating budget, ensuring alignment with the school’s mission and strategic goals.
• Provide financial reporting to the Board of Trustees and other stakeholders.
• Manage the school’s endowment, investment decisions, and performance in coordination with the finance committee.
• Develop financial models and forecasts to support short- and long-term planning.
• Supervise the school’s audit process, tax filings, and ensure compliance with all local and state financial regulations.
• Increase auxiliary revenue.
• Diversify income sources.

Operations and Human Resources

• Oversee business office functions, including human resources, payroll, and benefits administration (working closely with the HR Director).
• Collaborate with the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid to manage the financial aid budget.
• Help create policies and systems that support operational efficiency, staff development, and competitive compensation packages.

Community Engagement

• Serve on the senior leadership team and work closely with various committees, including finance, audit, and facilities.
• Foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and professionalism across the school community.
• Represent the school to external stakeholders, including vendors, banks, and legal counsel.

Why The Elisabeth Morrow School?

The Elisabeth Morrow School fosters a supportive, collaborative community where faculty, staff, and parents work together to create an environment of growth, respect, and inclusion. We are proud to be one of the most diverse independent schools in the country with an exemplary curriculum that features innovative programming in science, technology, engineering, the arts, mathematics, a nationally renowned instrumental music program, social-emotional learning, and community-wide core values.

Our location also offers a unique blend of urban proximity and natural beauty. Our 14-acre campus is a certified wildlife habitat with nature trails, community gardens, a pond, a brook, three playgrounds, and outdoor patios while still close to the energy and opportunities of New York City. For more information please visit https://elisabethmorrow.org/.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit their resume with a cover letter to mbeck@elisabethmorrow.org with Chief Financial and Operating Officer in the subject line.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Elisabeth Morrow School is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all employees.

About The Elisabeth Morrow School

The Elisabeth Morrow School’s shared purpose is to provide exemplary academics and character development in a diverse and inclusive child-centered community, inspiring students to become curious scholars, ethical leaders, and global citizens.

Connections working at The Elisabeth Morrow School