Boston University Academy is seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial Director of Operations & Finance to begin in the spring or summer of 2025; the start date is flexible. The Director is a senior leader and strategic partner to the Head of School, tasked with overseeing all aspects of operations and finance at BU Academy, leveraging relationships across the University, and aligning the school’s resources with long-term strategic objectives. Key responsibilities include financial management, operations, facilities management, risk management, compliance, legal matters, and human resources -- nearly all of which are done in close collaboration with offices around the University (e.g. HR, facilities, campus planning, technology, emergency management, sourcing, general counsel, finance, etc.). BUA is a small school with the back-office support of a world-class research institution. The Director has two direct reports, oversees several student employees, plays a central role on the Financial Aid Committee, and is a member of the senior Administrative Team.
Interested candidates are asked to send a resume, list of references (if available), and cover letter addressed to Mr. Chris Kolovos, Head of School, at buacareers@bu.edu.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management
engage in long-term, strategic financial planning
lead the annual budget development process in collaboration with the University
provide oversight and monitoring of budgets, expenditures, revenues, tuition, student accounts, accounting, and payroll
partner with the development team on the stewardship of gifts and endowed funds
Operations and Facilities Management
think strategically about long-term space management and capital projects
partner with BU’s facilities team on plant maintenance and repairs
ensure building security in collaboration with BUPD and other University partners
work with BU partners on parking, dining, and technology services
oversee purchasing and contracting operations for the school
ensure that resources and procedures are in place regarding student health
oversee all school records and enforce record retention policy
Risk Management, Compliance, and Legal Matters
oversee risk management procedures and foster a culture of liability awareness
collaborate with Director of Experiential Learning on protocols and risk management related to global trips
lead emergency preparedness for the school in collaboration with BU partners
act as a legal liaison with BU’s Office of General Counsel
Human Resources
provide oversight and guidance to BUA team member tasked with human resources and benefits, in collaboration with BU’s HR department
oversee compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements with respect to labor, benefits, and human resource issues
ensure compliance with required employee policies and training
provide appropriate benchmark data to the Head of School for compensation comparisons and the preparation of employment offers
Serve on Financial Aid Committee
analyze, review, and approve financial aid awards in collaboration with the financial aid committee
partner with admissions team as needed to support parents with financial issues relevant to their children’s enrollment at the school
Manage direct reports and student employees
provide oversight and guidance to two direct reports in operations, financial management, and human resources
oversee five to eight undergraduate student workers filling a variety roles
Serve on the Administrative Team and as a strategic partner to the Head of School
be part of the team focused on the big picture and charting a long-term vision for the school
align financial resources, physical plant, and university partnerships to fulfill the school’s strategic vision
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required; CPA and/or MBA preferred
At least five years experience working in operations and finance roles
Ability to build connections and partner with offices across the University
Ability to successfully navigate within the parameters of a large, complex university organization.
Familiarity with independent schools preferred
Thorough understanding of finance, planning, budgeting, human resources, facilities planning, and other areas of responsibility
Experience driving process and operational improvements
Strong leadership and proven supervisory skills
An entrepreneurial outlook
Flexibility and a collaborative spirit
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently while managing multiple projects and deadlines
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities
For all positions, we look for candidates who enjoy working with colleagues in a collaborative environment, who are flexible and creative, who will fully engage in the life of the school, and who are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable community.
Benefits
Boston University’s generous benefits package includes health, dental, life insurance, and paid time off. Full-time employees are also eligible for tuition remission for courses at Boston University, and the remission benefit extends to dependents as well. For more details on benefits, please refer to the Boston University benefits page at https://www.bu.edu/hr/employee-resources/benefits/.
About BUA
As the only high school in New England that is part of a major research university, Boston University Academy (BUA) offers students who love learning both a traditional, caring independent school experience and access to a broad range of university courses. In the eleventh and twelfth grades, students follow their passions by regularly completing up to twelve courses from Boston University’s undergraduate curriculum. The school’s 242 students are curious, capable, and kind. They come from roughly 50 cities and towns in the Greater Boston area. 53% of students identify as students of color. 29% of students receive financial aid — a reflection of BUA’s commitment to equity and access.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
Founded in 1993, Boston University Academy (BUA) is an academically rigorous, small independent day school located on the Boston University campus. As the only high school in New England that is part of a major research university, BUA offers students who love learning both a traditional, caring independent school experience and access to a broad range of university courses. Small class sizes and close relationships with BUA faculty allow students to nurture their talents. In the eleventh and twelfth grades, students follow their passions by regularly completing up to twelve courses from Boston University’s undergraduate curriculum. BUA students in good academic and disciplinary standing gain automatic admission to Boston University. BUA students’ defining characteristics are curiosity and kindness. They come from roughly 50 cities and towns in the Greater Boston area.
BUA’s mission: At Boston University Academy, kind and curious students who love learning are challenged to read deeply and think critically, to explore adventurously at Boston University, and to engage meaningfully in our community and beyond.