The Business Manager at Washington Academy is responsible for the overall management of the school’s financial and business operations, ensuring accuracy and accountability in all fiscal practices. This position plays a key leadership role in supporting the school’s mission by overseeing budgeting, accounting, reporting, compliance, and human resources functions.

The Business Manager works closely with the Head of School, senior leadership team, and the Board of Trustees to ensure the financial health and operational integrity of the Academy.

Primary Responsibilities

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual operating and capital budgets in collaboration with the Head of School and department leaders.
• Administer the annual budget and multi-year forecasting process to align with the school's goals and mission and maintain account records related to the school’s budget.
• Develop and oversee financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard assets, protect confidential information, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Secure financing and manage the school’s debt, including loans, lines of credit, and other financial obligations, in consultation with the Head of School and Board of Trustees.
• Prepare timely and accurate financial reports and analyses for the Head of School, Finance Committee, and Board of Trustees.
• Maintain accounting systems and internal controls in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Manage cash flow, banking relationships, investments, and endowment funds.
• Supervise accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and tuition billing processes.
• Coordinate the annual independent audit and ensure completion of financial statements and compliance filings.
• Oversee financial aid disbursement in collaboration with the Admissions Office.

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Serve as a key advisor to the Head of School on financial sustainability, resource allocation, and long-term planning.
• Support the Finance Committee and other relevant board committees through preparation of data, reports, and analysis.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives, including capital projects, campus planning, and resource development.

Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including those related to finance, employment, insurance, and safety.
• Oversee the school’s risk management program, including property, liability, and other insurance coverage.
• Review and manage contracts, leases, and vendor relationships to ensure fiscal responsibility and legal compliance.

Human Resources & Leadership

• Administer employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and payroll.
• Ensure that human resources policies and practices are clearly articulated, consistently applied, and conform to legal requirements.
• Support the Head of School in maintaining competitive compensation structures and staffing models.
• Manage, mentor, and develop direct reports, providing constructive and timely feedback. Model and foster high ethical standards, integrity, and respect for colleagues, alumni/ae, parents, and students in the conduct of the school’s business.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive environment for all staff and faculty, promoting engagement, teamwork, and professional growth.
• Remain current with business management trends and cultivate professional standards and development by participating in educational opportunities, reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks, and participating in local, regional, and national professional organizations.

Personal Attributes

• Integrity, discretion, and sound professional judgment.
• Strategic thinker with a practical, hands-on approach.
• Ability to balance attention to detail with a big-picture perspective.
• Collaborative, diplomatic, and solutions-oriented leadership style.
• Understand the culture and climate of the school and the wider educational environment.
• Communicate clearly and enthusiastically to all staff and stakeholders

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field required; CPA or MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of financial and operational management experience, ideally in an educational or nonprofit setting.
• Strong leadership and supervisory experience.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, or similar systems.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Washington Academy and to fostering a collaborative school community.

The successful candidate must hold a current CHRC (Criminal History Record Check) through the Maine Department of Education.

Candidates must complete the school's application found here:

Business Manager Application