Head of School of Finance & Accounting

Stephen’s Episcopal School invites nominations and applications for the position of Director of Finance and Accounting (DFA). This is an excellent opportunity for a CPA‑level accounting leader to join a nationally recognized independent school as the senior accounting professional and a key partner in advancing disciplined financial stewardship. Reporting to the Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations (AHOSF&O), the Director of Finance and Accounting will play a central role in the Business Office ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the school’s financial systems and reporting. This position provides day‑to‑day leadership of accounting operations, supervises the Senior Accountant, and serves as the primary liaison to external auditors and financial partners.

The role offers meaningful scope, responsibility, and professional growth within a collaborative, mission‑driven organization known for academic excellence, strong governance, and financial stability.

Financial Accounting and Internal Controls

Hold primary responsibility for the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of the school’s financial accounting and reporting.

Oversee all core accounting functions, including the general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, cash management, purchasing, payroll coordination, taxes, and related systems.

Establish, document, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls consistent with GAAP, FASB, and AICPA standards.

Review monthly reconciliations and ensure prompt resolution of discrepancies.

Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.

Budgeting, Analysis, and Decision Support

Partner with the AHOSF&O on the annual operating budget and multi‑year financial projections.

Conduct variance analysis and provide clear, actionable insights into financial performance and trends.

Support internal stakeholders with accurate financial data and analysis related to strategic initiatives and operational decisions.

Audit, Compliance, and Risk Management

Serve as the primary liaison to external auditors and manage a well‑organized, timely annual audit process.

Ensure compliance with financial policies, internal controls, and regulatory requirements; Coordinate risk management efforts, including insurance renewals and certificates of insurance.

Endowment, Investments, and External Reporting

Oversee endowment and investment accounting and reporting, including reconciliation of Fundriver.

Prepare and submit financial and operational surveys for organizations such as NAIS/DASL, NBOA/BIIS, SAES, ISAS, and Commonfund.

Develop financial benchmarks and comparative analyses in collaboration with the AHOSF&O.

Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and accounting team, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Directly supervise the Senior Accountant, providing guidance, coaching, and performance feedback.

Serve as a collaborative and trusted financial partner to colleagues across the school.

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; Minimum of five years of public accounting experience with nonprofit clients and/or five years of progressively responsible nonprofit or independent school accounting leadership experience.

Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis; school‑based accounting systems preferred.

In accordance with our founding mission and as a diocesan school of the Episcopal Church, St. Stephen's Episcopal School believes in the inherent value and dignity of every human being. We seek qualified candidates who share this foundational belief and are ready to work in community to create a more just society. As such, we strongly encourage people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities to apply to become members of our community.

Stephen’s Episcopal School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender or gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or sexual orientation or identity.