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 the budgeting, accounting, reporting, and control procedures for all of the funds maintained by the assigned local districts. A customer service focus must be present in the performance of all job duties. The LEA Business Manager I must be a collaborative leader and have the ability to manage all the financial matters of the districts. The LEA Business Manager I must be able to work effectively and communicate well with fellow ISD employees as well as all stakeholders of the local districts.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Work is performed under the general supervision of the Director of Business Services at the ISD. The LEA Business Manager is also accountable to the Superintendent of the local district(s) the employee supports. General responsibilities of this position include the following (does not include all tasks employee may be expected to perform):

1. 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 various schedules and data gathering for annual audit requirements
• Key interface with the auditors during the annual audit
• Write the Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) for Audit Report
• Submission of all required reports and related follow-up actions as appropriate
• Maintain system of internal control procedures for the district
• Monitor all funds for proper accounting and approval of expenditures for all funds
• Assist the Superintendent in carrying out all necessary functions of the district's operation according to the adopted budget, policies of the district, laws of the state and generally accepted accounting principles

• 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 being performed for the district by other ISD staff members

• District payroll and related payroll taxes
• Ensure all of the district's financial obligations are paid on a timely basis
• Require a regular requisition procedure from all employees properly channeled through principals, directors and other staff members in sufficient time 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, the investment laws of the state and the cash flow needs of the district

• Other

• 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 on an annual basis
• Using appropriate counsel, prepare and analyze bond issues, debt repayment schedules and long-range financial projections for the superintendent and board of education
• Ensure that bids are periodically solicited for food service management and make a recommendation to the board
• Ensure the district maintains adequate insurance for worker's compensation, general liability, errors and omissions to cover liabilities related to property and actions of district employees and that bids for such coverage are periodically solicited and reviewed
• 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 issues impacting the district

• 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 in accounting, finance, or business is a plus. Five years' experience in Michigan public school finance or comparable business office positions required. Strong preference will be given to those with previous experience as a business manager in Michigan schools. Familiarity with schools in Jackson County would also be a plus.


Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: MSBO Business Office Manager (or equivalent) certification will be required and must be pursued if not already held by anyone in this position. 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 good understanding of current trends in accounting, particularly related to public finance, is required. Knowledge and experience in sound business operations of a multi- department organization is required. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required along 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 and dependable. Must work well within given time and cost constraints. Must respect and maintain confidentiality. Must carry out all 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 upon 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 go to our website, 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.