Chief Financial Officer

Job Description

About Browne Academy

Founded in 1941, Browne Academy is a diverse, independent, coeducational day school serving students from age three through eighth grade in Alexandria, Virginia. Through extraordinary teaching, exceptional academic programs, and a nurturing community, we empower students to become critical thinkers, inspired innovators, engaged peers, and ethical leaders.

At Browne, we believe that every member of our community plays an important role in creating an exceptional educational experience.

The Opportunity

Browne Academy seeks a strategic, collaborative, and experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our senior leadership team.

Reporting to the Head of School, the CFO provides leadership and oversight of the school's financial management, business operations, human resources, facilities, and institutional resources. As a key strategic partner to the Head of School and Board of Trustees, the CFO will help ensure Browne's long-term financial sustainability while advancing the school's mission and strategic priorities.

The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking financial leader who combines strong business acumen with a collaborative leadership style and a genuine appreciation for the mission of an independent school.

Key Responsibilities

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• Financial Strategy and Planning: Lead budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting, long-term financial planning, and the development of strategies that support the school's financial health and institutional priorities.
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• Business Operations: Oversee the Business Office, accounting, payroll, risk management, insurance, and regulatory compliance while identifying opportunities to improve operational effectiveness.
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• Institutional Leadership: Serve as a member of the senior leadership team and strategic advisor to the Head of School and Board of Trustees, including supporting the Finance, Audit, and Buildings and Grounds Committees.
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• Human Resources: Oversee employee benefits, compensation, employment policies, and HR operations while supporting a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
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• Facilities and Operations: Provide leadership and oversight of campus facilities, maintenance, technology, health services, capital improvements, and vendor relationships.
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• Investment and Financial Stewardship: Oversee the school's endowment administration, banking relationships, annual audits, and financial compliance.
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• Community Engagement: Collaborate across departments and actively participate in the life of the school, building strong relationships with faculty, staff, families, and trustees.
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Qualifications

Required:

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• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field.
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• Significant senior-level financial management and leadership experience, ideally 10–15 years.
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• Demonstrated expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and organizational management.
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• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
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• Proven ability to lead teams, manage competing priorities, and contribute to strategic decision-making.
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Preferred:

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• MBA, CPA, or other relevant advanced credential.
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• Experience in an independent school or nonprofit organization.
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• Familiarity with nonprofit accounting, endowment management, and Board governance.
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• Experience overseeing human resources, facilities, and organizational operations.
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We welcome candidates from a variety of professional backgrounds who bring strong financial expertise, sound judgment, integrity, and a commitment to collaborative leadership.

Compensation and Benefits

Browne Academy offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package, including:

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• Medical, life, and disability insurance, with voluntary dental and vision coverage.
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• 403(b) retirement plan with up to a 5.5% school contribution after one year of service.
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• Four weeks of paid school holidays, 20 vacation days, and 10 additional PTO days.
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• 75% tuition remission for eligible children after one year of employment, subject to availability.
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• Complimentary morning and after-school care during the academic year.
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• 75% discount on summer camp and complimentary summer camp aftercare.
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Join Our Community

At Browne Academy, strong financial stewardship and thoughtful leadership make extraordinary educational experiences possible. The CFO will play a vital role in supporting our faculty, strengthening our community, and positioning the school for continued success.

We invite experienced, mission-driven leaders who are excited to make a meaningful impact to apply.

To Apply: Please submit a resume and cover letter to Zarina Alam at View email address on ziprecruiter.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Browne Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable law.