Director of Finance

Reports To: Principal Accountable To: Board of Trustees and various PHS stakeholder groups including families of enrolled students Location: Preston High School, Bronx, New York (PHS) Position Summary The Director of Finance is a member of PHS's executive team and is responsible for the overall financial management and daily business operations of the school. The role is both strategic and highly hands‑on. This position ensures the fiscal health, integrity, and sustainability of the institution while supporting its Catholic mission and educational goals. The Director of Finance manages the business office and serves as a key advisor to the Principal on financial strategy, budgeting, and operations. The Director of Finance also works with the Director of Development to implement fund‑raising strategies and with the Director of Admissions, the Admissions Committee, and the Principal to implement enrollment strategies. Key Responsibilities Maintain the school's general ledger and financial records in QuickBooks. Oversee, review, and be able to perform (as a backup) all core accounting functions, including: Accounts payable and receivable Payroll processing (backup) and review; preparation of monthly and quarterly reports for workman's comp/PFL, managing employee benefits programs (including medical annuity, workmen's compensation, disability insurance, 403(b) retirement plan, and unemployment compensation). Journal entries and monthly close Bank, investment, and credit card reconciliations Generate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports directly from QuickBooks. Develop, manage, and monitor the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Principal. Supervise and monitor the capital project budgets including oversight and payment of construction‑related bills. Monitor cash flow, investments, and financial trends. Maintain and update the 5‑Year Strategic Plan working with the Board of Trustees. Oversee and manage tuition billing, payment tracking, and collections. Serve as the primary contact for families regarding billing, payments, and financial questions. Assist with or coordinate financial aid processes. Maintain organized digital and paper financial records. Prepare financial reports and supporting documentation for annual audits according to GAAP and FASB reporting. Ensure proper setup and maintenance of chart of accounts, classes, and reporting structures in QuickBooks. Ensure compliance with federal and state requirements, including payroll taxes and filings. Manage vendor records, 1099 preparation, insurance policies, and contracts. Maintain internal controls appropriate for a small, non‑profit organization. Work closely with the Principal, the executive team, and Board of Trustees on financial planning, enrollment impact, and strategic decisions. Present financial reports and insights to the Board of Trustees and the finance committee. Supervise limited business office staff, if applicable, while directly performing or backing up the functions. Other duties/responsibilities as assigned by the Principal. Mission Integration Support and uphold the Catholic identity and mission of the school. Ensure responsible stewardship of financial resources in alignment with Catholic values. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (CPA or MBA preferred). 5–10 years of progressive financial management experience, preferably in education, nonprofit, or faith‑based organizations. Strong knowledge of accounting principles, budgeting, and financial reporting. Experience supervising staff and managing office operations. Familiarity with tuition management systems and nonprofit financial practices is a plus. Understanding of or commitment to Catholic education and mission. Skills & Competencies Strategic thinking and financial leadership High level of integrity and ethical judgment Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills Excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills Ability to collaborate effectively with school leadership and stakeholders Detail‑oriented with strong organizational skills Working Relationships Reports directly to the Principal Works closely with administrative team, department heads, and board/finance committee Supervises business office personnel #J-18808-Ljbffr Preston High School