Director of Finance and Accounting

About the role

The Director of Finance and Accounting (DFA) at St. Stephen's Episcopal School plays 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Partner with the Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations (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.
• 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; recommend and implement improvements as needed.
• Coordinate risk management efforts, including insurance renewals and certificates of insurance.
• 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; master's degree strongly preferred.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) strongly preferred.
• 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.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates should submit their resume and a letter of interest addressing their qualifications for this role.