Director of Finance Services

Director of Financial Services Region 4 Education Service Center - REGION 4 ESC - HOUSTON, Texas Open in Google Maps This job is also posted in Region 4 Education Service Center Job Details Job ID: 5639251 Application Deadline: Posted until filled Posted: Apr 10, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC) Starting Date: Immediately Job Description Classification: Admin/Prof Exemption Status/Test: Exempt/Administrative Job Grade: 8 Department: Business Services Reports To: Chief of Finance and Business Services Provide leadership for the Business Services department by directing the Center’s accounting operations, budget development and monitoring, financial reporting, audit coordination, compliance, financial systems, and State and Federal Program compliance functions. Serve as a key resource to the Chief of Finance and Business Services, Cabinet, directors, and departments by ensuring accurate reporting, strong internal controls, regulatory compliance, and efficient business operations. Supervise grant‑funded State and Federal Program Compliance activities and support LEAs through financial guidance, technical assistance, and back‑office business services as needed. Qualifications Education Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field required Master’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field preferred CPA, TASBO certification, or other relevant professional certification preferred Experience Five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in finance, accounting, or school finance/business operations, preferably in a public‑sector or educational setting Three years of supervisory or management experience Experience with budget development, financial reporting, audit coordination, compliance, and internal controls Experience managing financial systems, ERP platforms, and related system integrations Experience supporting school districts, charter schools, or other public entities with finance, compliance, or business office services preferred Special Knowledge and Skills Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls Strong knowledge of Texas public school finance, TEA requirements, grants, and other applicable state and federal regulations Ability to interpret and apply GAAP, governmental accounting standards, and regulatory requirements Strong knowledge of state and federal grant requirements, program compliance, fiscal monitoring, and related reporting. Ability to analyze financial data, identify risks, and develop practical recommendations Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills Ability to provide effective internal financial leadership and external consultative support while building collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders Major Responsibilities Lead the preparation, monitoring, analysis, and publication of the Center’s annual budget, including coordination of budget meetings, support for departmental budget development, and oversight of budget amendments and forecasts. Prepare, review, and present monthly and annual financial reports, agenda items, and supporting exhibits for the Chief of Finance and Business Services, Cabinet, Leadership Council, Board of Trustees, and other committees as requested. Direct month‑end and year‑end close processes, including journal entries, reconciliations, financial adjustments, and preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and other required financial reports. Ensure timely and accurate submission of all required financial, grant, and compliance reports in accordance with TEA, state, federal, and local requirements. Lead and coordinate external audits and reviews, including the annual independent audit and audits conducted by TEA or other funding agencies, and ensure implementation of any required corrective actions. Establish, maintain, and monitor internal controls, financial procedures, and accounting practices to safeguard assets, ensure accuracy of records, and maintain compliance with GAAP and applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Oversee the operation, security, maintenance, and continuous improvement of financial systems, including system integrations, upgrades, workflow efficiency, and user support. Maintain and update Business Services procedures, manuals, and processes to reflect regulatory changes, system enhancements, and operational best practices. Provide financial analysis, recommendations, and operational support for departmental initiatives, entrepreneurial activities, and organizational decision‑making, and serve as a primary financial resource to the Chief of Finance and Business Services, Cabinet, directors, and departments. Supervise the State and Federal Program Compliance area, including oversight of grant‑funded program operations, fiscal and program compliance, and staff providing external technical assistance, guidance, and support to LEAs. Provide operational back‑office support services to LEAs, including payroll, TRS reporting, accounts payable, budgeting support, financial reporting, and other business office functions as requested. Provide consultative support to LEAs through business office assessments, financial process reviews, and recommendations for improved efficiency, internal controls, compliance, and financial management practices. Provide technical assistance, mentoring, and capacity‑building support to business officials across the region in areas such as audit readiness, budgeting, internal controls, tax elections, compliance, and other school finance matters. Represent Region 4 in regional and statewide meetings, professional organizations, and collaborative forums related to school finance and business operations. Supervise, evaluate, and develop Business Services staff through training, coaching, and performance support to ensure high‑quality service and effective operations. Conduct periodic reviews of financial processes and operations to identify risks, improve efficiency, and support continuous improvement. Monitor changes in accounting standards, school finance requirements, and applicable laws and regulations, and provide training, guidance, and technical assistance to internal staff and regional partners as appropriate. Physical Demands/Environmental Factors/ Mental Demands Frequent use of standard office equipment; prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting; repetitive hand motions (keyboarding and use of mouse); occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may work prolonged and irregular hours; occasional statewide travel; work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure. Position Type: Full-Time Salary: $122,707 to $144,362 Per Year Job Requirements At least 5 year(s) of relevant experience preferred. Bachelor degree preferred. Citizenship, residency or work visa required. #J-18808-Ljbffr