Chief Financial Officer

Position Title: Chief Financial Officer


Reports to: President & CEO


Department: Finance


Position Category: Exempt, Full-time, Permanent, 12 months

Position Summary: The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will play a pivotal role in financial management, planning, and oversight for both the nonprofit organization and our charter schools. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead financial operations in a dynamic educational environment.

Essential Job Functions:

Financial Planning and Strategy:

• Develop comprehensive financial strategies and plans to support the mission and objectives of the nonprofit organization and charter schools.
• Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with school leaders and department heads to align financial resources with strategic priorities.
• Conduct financial analysis, forecasting, and modeling to inform decision-making and resource allocation.

Financial Reporting and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, accounting standards, and grant requirements.
• Oversee the preparation of timely and accurate financial statements, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
• Coordinate audits and financial reviews, liaising with external auditors and regulatory agencies as needed.

Cash Management and Treasury:

• Manage cash flow and liquidity for both the nonprofit organization and charter schools, optimizing resources to support operations and growth.
• Monitor banking activities, investment portfolios, and debt obligations to maintain financial stability and minimize risk.
• Develop and implement effective cash management strategies to meet short-term and long-term financial needs.
• Manage and oversee grants received from Federal and State entities, as well as partner with the Development department to ensure donor funds are managed and distributed accurately and effectively.

Risk Management and Internal Controls:

• Identify and assess financial risks, implementing appropriate controls and mitigation strategies.
• Establish and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with policies and procedures.
• Monitor and evaluate financial processes, recommending improvements to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency.

Strategic Leadership and Collaboration:

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO, Board of Directors, and school leadership teams on financial matters.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to develop and implement strategic initiatives that advance the mission and sustainability of the organization and charter schools.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Provide high-quality stewardship of all constituents and organization's resources
• Oversee and administer business activities including:
  • Bank and investments transactions and reconciliations
  • Accounts Receivables
  • Supervision of Accounts Payables Clerk
  • Payroll
  • PEIMS Financial Reporting

Essential Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree and 5+ years combined accounting and financial reporting experience; Certified Public Account License (CPA) preferred
• Deep understanding of nonprofit accounting principles, charter school finance, and grant management required
• Accrual accounting and financial reporting; A/P and A/R; payroll
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels
• Strong financial acumen with a solid understanding of accounting principles and practices, while effectively managing a small, but active business office; TxEIS; TRS; budget planning/management; accounting software; MS Office

Physical Requirements - ability to carry 25-50 lbs.; valid driver license