Chief Financial Officer

About the role

Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart invites nominations and applications for the position of Chief Financial Officer. This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic and mission-driven financial leader to join one of Houston's premier independent schools during a transformative period of growth and opportunity.

Reporting directly to the Head of School and serving as a key member of the administration leadership team, the CFO will help guide the financial and operational future of a thriving institution known for its academic excellence, strong enrollment, and deep commitment to Sacred Heart education.

Responsibilities

The next CFO will build upon the remarkable work of a respected leader who will retire after fourteen years of service. Working closely in partnership with the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and senior administrators, the successful candidate will help the school navigate complex financial and operational opportunities while ensuring that resources remain aligned with mission and strategic priorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field; MBA, CPA, CFA, or other advanced professional credential preferred.
• Seven to fifteen or more years of progressively responsible financial leadership experience, including significant responsibility for budgeting, forecasting, financial planning and analysis, audit oversight, risk management, and organizational strategy.
• Demonstrated success overseeing complex financial and operational functions within a mission-driven organization, preferably an independent school, higher education institution, nonprofit organization, or similarly complex service-oriented environment.
• Experience partnering with a governing board, finance committee, or other senior-level leadership group on strategic planning, financial reporting, capital projects, and institutional decision-making.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit accounting principles, internal controls, cash management, debt financing, investments, endowment management, and financial compliance.

Qualifications

Duchesne seeks a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who combines strong financial acumen with exceptional relationship-building skills, strategic vision, and an appreciation for the mission and values of Sacred Heart education.

A forward-thinking executive who can align financial strategy, resource allocation, and long-range planning with the school's mission and future aspirations.

A valued thought partner to the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership team who brings sound judgment, credibility, and clarity to complex decisions.

Skills

• Experience providing oversight or strategic partnership in one or more related operational areas, including human resources, facilities, technology, risk management, auxiliary services, or campus operations.
• Demonstrated success leading and developing professional teams while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Experience supporting capital projects, campus planning initiatives, major fundraising efforts, or other complex institutional investments is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with enrollment-driven business models, tuition assistance programs, and the financial dynamics of independent schools or similarly market-driven educational organizations is desirable.

Benefits

Duchesne offers a comprehensive compensation benefits package designed to support the personal and professional well-being of its employees.

Pay

The salary range for this position will be highly competitive with peer schools regionally and commensurate with the candidate’s experience and qualifications.