Manager of Finance

Are you looking to make a BIG impact? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

Currently, we operate multiple elementary and middle schools in the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens . We plan to grow and open 1-2 schools each year because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. Join our growing team today, and be a change agent for children.

Our Network office is located at 401 W. 218th St., New York, NY 10034. Our Network team follows a hybrid work schedule: we work in-person from our office on Tuesdays and Thursdays with optional remote days on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, if your team's scope of work permits.

Deliver powerful results

To achieve our vision, we are searching for a stellar Manager of Finance with a Bachelor's Degree and 2-3 years of work experience in finance, accounting, or consulting who is fueled by a passion for team success and continual improvement. Candidates with a background in quantitative analysis are highly encouraged to apply. The Manager of Network Financial Planning & Analysis leads the execution and day-to-day operation of FP&A processes for a defined scope (e.g., Network portfolios), overseeing budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and financial performance management. This role reports to the Associate Director of FP&A and serves as the primary financial partner to Network budget owners.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Exceptional quantitative and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for diverse stakeholders
• A track record of building accurate financial models, reports, and tools that inform strategic decision-making
• Strong financial acumen across budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and internal control
• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy, compliance, and risk mitigation
• Ownership over timelines and deliverables, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, scaling environment
• Comfort operating in ambiguity and wearing multiple hats on a lean team
• A collaborative mindset, with a genuine investment in team success and continuous process improvement
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and a positive attitude with the ability to translate financial concepts to non‑financial staff
• Experience in quantitative analysis roles is a plus, but not required

Responsibilities:

Network Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the development, maintenance, and refinement of Network budgets and forecasts within assigned scope and standards ensuring usability for Network budget owners.
• Build and maintain financial models, ensuring accuracy, consistency and scalability
• Support the build‑out and error‑checking of the master assumptions file and consolidated budget file infrastructure, ensuring data accuracy.

Reporting & Performance Management

• Lead routine financial planning, and perform standard and ad‑hoc financial reporting in Cube (FP&A platform), ensuring dashboards and reports are accurate, timely, and surfacing relevant performance drivers and risks.
• Prepare first‑draft budget vs. actual variance reports and root cause analyses for AD review, ensuring underlying data is accurate and findings are clearly organized.
• Translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for stakeholders
• Write and maintain SOPs for Network budget and reporting processes, ensuring institutional knowledge is codified and scalable as the organization grows.

Stakeholder Partnership & Cross‑Functional Coordination

• Serve as the primary FP&A partner for assigned teams, leading quarterly financial reviews and providing proactive financial guidance by building strong relationships that strengthen financial literacy, accountability, and proactive decision‑making.
• Manage the Network budget calendar, including submission deadlines, owner touchpoints, and follow‑up to ensure timely and complete budget submissions.
• Partner closely with the School FP&A Manager to ensure alignment between Network and School financials
• Facilitate cross‑functional collaboration among Network budget owners where there are overlapping operational areas to resolve financial dependencies, risks, and competing priorities
• Wear multiple hats as a part of a lean scale‑up team, supporting the work of others on the team and taking on new projects and tasks as needed

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child‑like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child. Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private sector experience. At Zeta:

• We are passionate about our mission of providing world‑class education to all students
• We bring a mindset of growth, flexibility, and openness to feedback
• We are hungry and determined to not only meet our goals, but surpass them
• We are humble, willing to put the team’s needs ahead of our own, and committed to contributing to a collaborative work environment
• We have a high bar for excellence and sweat over the details
• We are caring and put team over individual at all times

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. The salary range for this position is between $85,000 and $100,000. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary at or near the start of the range, depending on relevant experience and internal equity. Compensation is based on our salary scales. This position is eligible to receive an annual discretionary, merit‑based performance bonus.

How does Zeta invest in you?

We offer great benefits:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings
• Competitive compensation

We provide awesome perks:

• Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses (Gym memberships, salon appointments, concerts – it's up to you!)
• 4 live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace, and a free Headspace subscription
• Thinkpad, and specified monthly reimbursement for use of mobile phone
• Fully stocked teacher workrooms with favorite snacks and Nespresso machine
• Zeta swag, team outings, and NYC's finest sweet treats

We care deeply about your personal and professional growth:

• Clear pathway to professional growth
• Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates
• Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
• Interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).