Chief Operations Officer

Smithfield Public Schools

$120K — $150K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in finance or related field required; Master's degree or CPA preferred.
  • 3-5 years of financial leadership experience in a public school district or similar organization.
  • Strong leadership, analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, school data systems (e.g., Infinite Visions, Aspen, SchoolSpring).
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment independently and collaboratively. Commitment to equity and inclusion in public education.

Responsibilities

  • Lead financial planning and budgeting processes for the district.
  • Oversee accounting functions and ensure accurate financial reporting under GAAP and GASB.
  • Develop and implement long-range financial plans aligned with district goals.
  • Advise senior management on financial implications of policy and legislative changes.
  • Supervise finance staff and ensure compliance with employment regulations.
  • Manage all financial operations including Accounts Payable, Receivable, and Payroll.
  • Oversee procurement, contract administration, and risk management.

Benefits

  • Standard office environment with occasional evening or weekend work required.
  • Exposure to community engagement related to fiscal matters.
  • Opportunity for impact in public education through financial stewardship.
  • Access to professional development in financial leadership.
  • Participation in strategic planning and long-term educational financing decisions.
Full Job Description
Position Overview: The Chief Financial Officer is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for the comprehensive fiscal stewardship of the district's resources. This role ensures efficient use of funds, manages financial operations, and provides expert financial analysis and forecasting to support senior management in decision-making and long-term planning. Qualifications: Education: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required, with a Master's degree or CPA preferred. Experience: 3-5 years of financial leadership experience, preferably in a public school district or similar organization. Skills: Includes leadership, analytical, organizational, and communication skills, proficiency in financial software, and the ability to work with various stakeholders. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and school data systems (e.g., Infinite Visions, Aspen, SchoolSpring). Excellent communication, organization, and time-management skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the mission of public education. Key Responsibilities: The CFO's key responsibilities include leading financial planning and budgeting, overseeing accounting and financial reporting, managing compliance and audits, asset management, addressing risk management and contracts, oversight of human resources and benefits, food services, transportation, and facilities contracts. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Financial Planning and Budget Management: Leads the development and management of operating and capital budgets, including forecasting and analysis. 1.Strategic Financial Leadership Accounting and Financial Reporting: Oversees accounting functions and ensures accurate reporting under GAAP and GASB standards. Develop and implement a long-range financial plan that supports the district's strategic goals and capital improvement needs. Provide data-driven projections for enrollment, tax revenue, and state/federal funding. Advise the Superintendent and School Committee on the financial implications of policy decisions, collective bargaining agreements, and legislative changes. 2. Supervises finance staff. Human Resources & Benefits Oversight: Collaborates with Human Resources on employee benefits, position coordination, and ensures compliance with labor regulations. 3. Budget Development & Management Lead the annual budget process, coordinating with department heads and principals to allocate resources equitably across schools. Present the annual budget to the public, school committee, and town council. Monitor expenditure trends and implement corrective actions to ensure the district operates within its approved budget. 4. Financial Operations & Compliance Oversee the daily operations of the Finance Department, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, and General Ledger. Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements. Compliance and Auditing: Manages annual audits and ensures compliance with regulations, establishing and maintaining internal controls. Risk Management and Legal Affairs: Manages insurance coverage and develops risk mitigation procedures. Procurement and Contract Management: Directs the purchasing process, including bidding, negotiation, and contract administration (transportation, food service, facilities). 5. Grant & Fund Management Supervise the administration of federal (e.g., Title I, IDEA), state, and local grants to ensure compliance with strict reporting guidelines. Manage the district's debt service, bond issuances, and investment portfolios to maximize returns while ensuring financial stability. Cash and Asset Management: Handles investment activities, fixed asset control, and debt management. 6. Stakeholder Communication Translate complex financial data into accessible reports and presentations for non-financial stakeholders. Serve as the liaison to the District and the Town's Director of Finance and represent the district in community forums regarding fiscal matters. Work Environment: Standard office environment within the central administration building. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for school events or deadlines.

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