Chief Financial Officer

About the role

The Chief Financial Officer at Westminster Christian School will work collaboratively with the Head of School and Board to shape long-range financial strategy, annual budgets, enrollment-driven forecasting, and multiyear financial models that support mission fulfillment and institutional sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Align financial planning with strategic priorities, capital initiatives, and long-term institutional goals, providing clear guidance on financial trade-offs, risks, and opportunities in partnership with the Head of School and Board.
• Provide comprehensive oversight of all financial operations, including accounting, tuition and receivables, cash flow, investments and investment accounts, audits, and internal controls, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and strong fiscal stewardship.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory, reporting, and fiduciary requirements, while proactively strengthening systems and controls to support growth and complexity.
• Lead financial risk management efforts, including insurance coverage, internal controls, and financial safeguards, balancing prudent risk mitigation with operational flexibility.
• Review and negotiate significant contracts, leases, and vendor agreements in collaboration with the Head of School and legal counsel, exercising sound judgment and financial discipline.
• Collaborate with the Human Resources Director on compensation and benefits strategy, staffing models, and the financial implications of HR policies and compliance requirements.
• Partner with the Director of Operations on operational budgeting, capital projects, and facilities planning, providing financial insight while respecting clear functional ownership and shared accountability.
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with Board members, the Finance Committee, auditors, and external partners, serving as a steady and credible financial leader.
• Communicate financial concepts clearly and effectively to non-financial audiences, fostering understanding, trust, and alignment across the School community.

Qualifications

• Active membership in a Protestant church whose doctrine is consistent with the school’s Statement of Belief.
• A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive financial leadership experience, preferably in independent schools, nonprofit organizations, or similarly complex institutions.
• A record of working with boards, finance committees, and senior leadership teams.
• Strong strategic and analytical skills with the ability to translate financial data into clear, actionable insights.
• Proven leadership and supervisory experience with the ability to build and lead effective finance teams.
• A high level of integrity, judgement, and discretion.
• A strong understanding of internal controls, audits, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency with financial systems, accounting software, and data-driven reporting tools.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.