LEA Business Manager I

Summary The LEA Business Manager will provide financial leadership for the local districts / schools to which they are assigned. This includes budgeting, accounting, reporting, and control procedures for all funds maintained by the assigned districts. A customer service focus must be present in all duties. The manager must be a collaborative leader and able to manage all financial matters of the districts, working effectively and communicating well with ISD employees and stakeholders. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Responsible for all accounting and financial matters of the district Maintain chart of accounts for the accounting system Employ sound accounting practices to ensure adequate records revealing the administration of the budget Prepare, enter and maintain general journal entries as necessary Maintain written manuals, procedures, suspense files, requisitions, purchasing, budgeting and payments in compliance with acceptable accounting standards and district, state and federal guidelines Preparation of the district's annual budget Budget development and all steps related to review and approval with the Superintendent and Board of Education Prepare all budget amendments as required Prepare monthly reports tracking actual spending versus budget Month end close of financial system Reconciliation of identified key cash and other balance sheet accounts Monthly reconciliation of all bank statements Internal controls and annual audit Preparation of schedules and data gathering for audit requirements Key interface with auditors during the annual audit Write the Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) for the audit report Submission of required reports and related follow-up actions Maintain system of internal control procedures for the district Monitor all funds for proper accounting and approval of expenditures Assist the Superintendent in operating the district according to budget, policies, laws, and GAAP Preparation of required reports and schedules Monthly financial report Balance sheet Revenue & expenditure details Cash flow All reports for various title funds including annual consolidated application Required local, state and federal reports (FID, SE-4096, etc.) Oversee financial functions performed for the district by other ISD staff District payroll and related payroll taxes Ensure all financial obligations are paid on time Require a regular requisition procedure from employees via principals, directors and other staff for cost‑effective purchase of supplies through competitive bidding Determine annual millage rates for operational and debt funds, prepare L-4029 for board approval Reconcile property taxes received from the township Invest all receipts and cash reserves according to district policies, state investment laws and cash flow needs Other responsibilities Attend all board meetings, committee meetings and special meetings of the Board of Education and present financial information as needed Participate in the negotiation of employment contracts for organized employee groups and individual contracts Maintain and update the district Capital Asset Inventory annually Prepare and analyze bond issues, debt repayment schedules and long‑range financial projections for the superintendent and board Recommend bids for food service management and insurance coverage, ensuring periodic solicitation and review Use a personal motor vehicle to travel between work sites Maintain professional certification and up‑to‑date knowledge of school finance issues Maintain membership in appropriate professional organization (e.g., MSBO) and participate in regular continuing education, seminars and certification courses Monitor and review state and federal legislation, particularly related to budgets and school financing, and advise Superintendent on impacting issues Regular and predictable in‑person attendance is required for this position. Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business is required. Master’s degree is a plus. Five years’ experience in Michigan public school finance or comparable business office positions is required. Strong preference will be given to those with prior experience as a business manager in Michigan schools; familiarity with schools in Jackson County is a plus. Certificates, Licenses, Registrations MSBO Business Office Manager (or equivalent) certification will be required and must be pursued if not already held. MSBO Chief Financial Officer certification preferred. Valid Michigan driver's license and good driving record required. Other Skills and Abilities Demonstrated knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and current public finance trends is required. Knowledge and experience in sound business operations of a multi‑department organization is required. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Must be proficient or master user of Microsoft Word and Excel. Must have successful experience in using a current financial software package/technology. Proficiency in Munis financial software is preferred. Must be organized, dependable, respect confidentiality, and work well within time and cost constraints. Must carry out responsibilities with awareness of all requirements and standards established by the Board of Education. Employment Date, Salary, and Fringe Benefits Anticipated employment date is as soon as possible. This is a 52‑week position. Placement on the Administrator/Coordinator salary schedule depends on qualifications and experience; new employee starting salary range is $78,613‑$94,016. Paid health, dental, vision, life and long‑term disability insurances, along with sick and vacation days. This position is FLSA exempt. To Apply Interested parties should visit the site to complete an online application. Pre-employment Screening Applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment for a position with JCISD will be required to successfully complete a background check, a pre‑employment physical to determine ability to perform the desired position (with or without reasonable accommodations) and a drug test. #J-18808-Ljbffr Jackson County Intermediate School District