Senior Director of Budget and Finance

Position Overview

The Senior Director of Budget and Finance will report to the CEO and work with program staff, families, and other stakeholders to ensure a high level of service, compliance, and financial sustainability. This position works with the CEO to set and communicate financial management strategies, managing daily finance operations including school budgets, revenue and expenditure data, audits, federal and state grants. The Senior Director is a critical thought partner to the Chief Executive Officer, senior leadership team, school principals, and other budget owners to realize organizational priorities.

Essential Job Functions

Financial Strategy, Planning, and Oversight (25%)

• Lead fiscal planning and implementation of the annual budget
• Analyze key indicators to inform organizational decision-making
• Manage financial forecasting, budgets, and overseeing the preparation of all financial reporting
• Support contingency planning to ensure the organization can manage unexpected financial situations
• Assist the COO in managing complex real estate financing structures
• Support the Audit, Finance, and Facilities Committee of the Board of Trustees and other supporting entities

Internal Accounting Processes and Controls (30%)

• In partnership with an accounting firm direct preparation and transmission of financial statements, annual audit, tax filings, and financial compliance reports to banks, city, state, and federal agencies
• Oversee all aspects of the budgeting, forecasting, and monthly reporting processes - ensure accuracy and predictability of results and key metrics
• Oversee cash, investments, and asset management
• Work closely with the Talent and HR teams to manage staff census and salaries
• Set department budgets, track and communicate spending to budget owners and school leaders
• Manage purchasing and cash management activities
• Manage Budget and Finance Coordinator position, responsible for coordinating monthly reconciliation and accounts payable/receivable processes

Audit, Data, and Reporting (30%)

• Lead multiple audits to ensure compliance with all federal and state policies and procedures
• Develop materials for reporting to senior leadership and Board of Trustees
• Coordinate submissions for all school financial reporting requirements

Grants Management (15%)

• Manage planning and application process for federal and local grants
• Serve as the point of contact for all grant monitoring activities
• Assist in budget development for competitive and private grants
• Ensure grants are aligned to the school’s budget
• Oversee all grant drawdown processes to ensure no lapsed grant funds

Starting Salary: $107,640 - $123,510

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance or business area preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in finance, grants management, or related positions.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace, especially Excel and Sheets, preferred.
• Prior experience with QuickBooks Online preferred.
• Exceptional analytical skills and data management.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently.
• Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal)
• A team player with a sense of collaboration and ownership
• Expertise and demonstrated experience in understanding finance policies and budgeting processes.
• Ability to build strong, authentic relationships and credibility with people at all levels
• Organized with attention to detail and ability to make timely, effective, mission-aligned decisions
• Exceptional reliability and integrity to maintain confidentiality for sensitive issues