Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFOO)

Position Summary The CFOO is a senior leader and strategic partner to the Head of School and Board, responsible for the school’s financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, and long-term stability. This role leads the school’s financial stabilization efforts, including identifying structural vs. temporary deficits, aligning resources to mission priorities, and implementing a multi-year path to sustainability. The CFOO oversees finance, operations, facilities, technology, human resources, and risk management, ensuring disciplined, transparent, and data-informed decision-making across the organization. Institutional Context Chartwell School is a nonprofit nonpublic school serving students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences. The school is in a period of leadership transition and continued financial stabilization following prior operating deficits. Core operational teams are in place; the CFOO provides strategic oversight, integration, and accountability across functions. Reporting Structure Reports to: Head of School Partners: Board of Trustees, Finance & Audit Committees Oversees: Finance, HR, Facilities, IT, and Operations Core Responsibilities Financial Strategy & Management Lead a 3–5 year financial sustainability plan Diagnose and address structural financial drivers Develop scenario-based models (enrollment, tuition, staffing, fundraising) Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and financial reporting Ensure strong internal controls and financial discipline Board Partnership & Governance Serve as primary financial liaison to the Board and committees Deliver clear, actionable financial reporting and analysis Support scenario planning, risk assessment, and decision-making Manage key financial cycles (tuition-setting, budget approval) Operations & Infrastructure Oversee Facilities, IT, and operational systems Lead cross-functional improvements to increase efficiency and cost control Provide oversight of capital projects, deferred maintenance, and vendors Ensure technology and data systems support institutional needs Human Resources Oversight Provide executive oversight of HR strategy and compliance Support HR leadership in employee relations and performance systems Compliance, Risk & Stewardship Ensure compliance with GAAP, nonprofit regulations, and accreditation requirements. Lead audit, 990/5500 filings, and financial reporting integrity Oversee risk management, insurance, and fiduciary responsibilities (including 403(b)) Partner with Admissions and Advancement on enrollment modeling and financial aid strategy . Align fundraising and restricted funds with financial priorities Support development of diversified revenue streams Leadership & Culture Build and lead a high-performing finance and operations team Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and financial discipline Year One Priorities Establish accurate, timely financial reporting and cash flow visibility Conduct operational assessment (HR, IT, Facilities) to identify risks and gaps Strengthen systems, controls, and processes Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Chartwell School provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Qualifications Bachelor’s in Finance, Accounting, or related field (MBA/CPA preferred) 7–15+ years of senior financial leadership experience Independent school experience preferred Demonstrated success in financial planning, business operations, and Board partnership Leadership Profile Strategic, analytical, and solutions-oriented Comfortable navigating complex financial models with clarity and candor Strong communicator with both financial and non-financial stakeholders Systems thinker with the ability to translate strategy into execution #J-18808-Ljbffr National Association of Independent Schools