Head of Finance (Full-Time)

Director Of Finance
The State Education Resource Center (SERC) is seeking a qualified candidate for a full-time Director of Finance to lead and manage the organization's accounting operations, financial reporting, and fiscal compliance. This role combines hands-on accounting leadership with strategic financial oversight to ensure financial integrity, transparency, and alignment with organizational goals. The position reports directly to the Executive Director and plays a central role in supporting SERC's mission through sound financial management, effective internal controls, and collaborative fiscal planning.
At SERC, our mission is grounded in a deep and unwavering commitment to equity and social justice. Through our resources, professional development offerings, and centralized library, we work to dismantle systemic barriers and foster environments built on compassion, accountability, and transformative change.
Our team members, in collaboration with the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) and partners in school districts and community organizations, support educators, service providers, and families in strengthening their capacity to meet the diverse needs of all students. The Director of Finance oversees the administration, planning, forecasting, and financial management of the organization. This role combines hands-on accounting oversight with strategic financial leadership to support the agency's programs and long-term sustainability. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and agency leadership, the Director manages financial modeling, forecasting, budgeting, job costing, and financial reporting while ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The Director of Finance also works to strengthen financial systems, enhance fiscal accountability, and support informed decision-making across the agency.
The Director of Finance is responsible for leading and managing the organization's core financial operations. The following functions outline the key responsibilities required to ensure accurate, compliant, and strategically aligned financial management across the agency. Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to support short- and long-term financial strategy.
Provide financial analysis, forecasts, and recommendations to leadership and the Board of Directors.
Direct and oversee all finance and accounting operations, including financial reporting, billing, and accounting procedures.
Maintain a hands-on role in core accounting functions, ensuring accurate financial transactions, reconciliations, and reporting.
Strengthen financial accountability and transparency through improved systems and reporting practices.
Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements to leadership and the Board.
Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop the annual operating budget and oversee long-term fiscal planning.
Monitor agency cash flow and provide guidance on fiscal sustainability and financial planning.
Ensure strong internal controls and compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements.
Oversee accounting for programs, grants, and projects, ensuring expenditures align with funding requirements.
Maintain relationships with external partners including banks, auditors, and financial service providers.
The Director of Finance position encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. Financial Planning
Lead organizational financial planning and analyze budget-to-actual performance.
Develop financial forecasts to support program planning and organizational growth.
Monitor cash flow to support operational stability.
Financial Operations
Oversee accounting systems, financial records, and reporting functions.
Supervise the accurate and timely processing of accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and payroll tax reporting, journal entries, reconciliations, and cash management.
Prepare financial reports for federal, state, and foundation grants.
Ensure expenditure remains aligned with grant and program budgets.
Develop and maintain fiscal policies and procedures for financial operations.
Risk Management and Compliance
Monitor financial risks and maintain effective internal controls.
Ensure compliance with regulatory, tax, and financial reporting requirements.
Maintain records that meet audit and government reporting standards.
Coordinate external audits and address recommendations.

Nonprofit, education, or government financial management practices
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standards
Grant and program financial management
Risk management and internal control systems
Leading hands-on accounting operations, including financial reporting, audit preparation, and budgeting
Developing financial policies and improving accounting procedures
Analyzing complex financial data and presenting findings to leadership
Using financial management systems and office technology, including MIP Fund Accounting, ADP Workforce Now, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)
Analyze financial issues and implement effective solutions
Communicate financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial audiences
The Director of Finance supervises fiscal department personnel and provides leadership and operational oversight for core accounting functions.
The Director of Finance will operate in a professional office and virtual environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers and phones. Off-site requirements are specific to workshops, training, or school and community work.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee must communicate effectively, remain mobile, use hands and fingers to operate equipment, manage objects, and reach with hands and arms. Access to reliable transportation or the ability to travel to off-site work locations is required.
This is a full-time, exempt position, with regular work hours Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. A Bachelor's degree (BA) with a concentration in Accounting or a closely related field is required. Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, with three years of supervisory experience preferred. The position requires demonstrated experience in hands-on accounting functions such as financial reporting, audit preparation, budgeting, and oversight of core accounting operations. Experience with GAAP compliance, grant accounting, and financial management systems such as MIP Fund Accounting and ADP Workforce Now is strongly preferred. Experience in nonprofit organizations, education agencies, government entities, or other grant-funded environments is highly desirable. A thorough, updated resume, cover letter, and at least three professional references submitted with the application package are required for consideration. Apply online at
SERC may expand inquiries into materials submitted in support of an applicant's candidacy without further permission from the applicant. The organization may review or verify materials submitted in support of an applicant's candidacy without additional permission.