Executive Director of Finance

About the Role

The Executive Director of Finance serves as a key strategic leader within the District's Business and Finance division, providing executive-level leadership, direction, and oversight of the District's financial operations in support of the Chief Financial Officer. This position assists in the planning, coordination, administration, and evaluation of the District's accounting and financial functions, including Budget, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, and related financial operations. The role ensures compliance with laws, regulations, and internal control standards while promoting sound fiscal management and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Education/Certification:
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or Business-Related Field; or 10+ years of successful progressive experience in management of fiscal operations in education.
  • Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or Business-related field preferred.
  • CPA preferred.
  • TASBO certified (preferred).
• Special Knowledge/Skills:
  • Strong organizational, communication, public relations, and interpersonal skills.
  • Knowledge of budgeting, accounting systems, payroll processing, GAAP, and Governmental Fund Accounting.
  • Knowledge of salary administration, district operations, TEA Financial Accountability Resource Guide, public school law, board policy, insurance, and investments.
  • Ability to coordinate budget efforts, analyze data, work under deadlines, and use Microsoft Office and Google products.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of successful progressive experience in fiscal operations management.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Management:
  • Oversee financial and business operations, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, and accounts payable/receivable.
  • Assist in planning, preparation, and monitoring of the annual operating budget and long-range financial plans.
  • Ensure financial operations support the District's strategic plan and campus objectives.
  • Coordinate with campus leadership to provide financial guidance and support for District initiatives.
  • Support procurement practices compliance and efficient District operations.
• Administration and Fiscal Management:
  • Assist the CFO in financial administration, operational oversight, and strategic planning.
  • Develop and maintain accounting systems, financial procedures, and internal controls.
  • Oversee financial reporting, forecasting, and analysis of revenues and expenditures.
  • Coordinate preparation of financial reports, budget documents, and investment reports.
  • Monitor cash flow, investments, and treasury operations.
  • Establish operational standards to improve efficiency and accountability.
  • Evaluate and improve financial systems and processes.
  • Analyze financial data and provide recommendations for decision-making.
  • Develop and monitor departmental goals aligned with District initiatives.
  • Keep the CFO informed on financial operations, risks, and compliance matters.
• School/Organization Climate:
  • Develop a culture of accountability, collaboration, and customer service.
  • Maintain effective relationships with stakeholders.
  • Communicate financial information clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Participate in Board meetings, planning sessions, and professional activities.
  • Support continuous improvement and fiscal responsibility.
• Personnel Management:
  • Supervise, support, and evaluate assigned staff and department leaders.
  • Provide leadership and technical guidance on accounting, budgeting, and compliance.
  • Assign responsibilities, monitor workflow, and ensure accountability.
  • Promote teamwork and high performance expectations.
• Professional Growth and Development:
  • Maintain knowledge of school finance, accounting standards, and regulations.
  • Adhere to professional and ethical standards.
  • Utilize feedback and resources to improve leadership effectiveness.
  • Address emerging financial and regulatory challenges in public education.
• Personal Work Relationships:
  • Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct.
  • Maintain positive working relationships and provide high-quality customer service.
  • Promote collaboration and effective communication.
• Other Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by the CFO, Superintendent, or designee.

Working Conditions

• Physical Demands: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending, stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting; repetitive hand motions; occasional light lifting (less than 15 pounds).
• Environment: Prolonged or irregular hours; occasional districtwide and statewide travel.
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.
• Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise accounting staff and make hiring/firing recommendations to the CFO.
• Wage/Hour Status: Exempt
• Pay Grade: Administrative Professional 8

The Abilene ISD does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Employment decisions will be made based on job qualifications, experience, and abilities.