Director of School Finance
Reports To: Superintendent
Work Year: 12 Months (Anticipated Start Fall 2026)
Position Overview
The Director of School Finance serves as the chief financial officer for Sussex County Public Schools (SCPS), ensuring the fiscal integrity, accountability, and transparency of all financial operations within the division. This position oversees the preparation, administration, and monitoring of the annual operating and capital budgets; directs accounting, purchasing, and payroll functions; and ensures compliance with federal, state, and local financial regulations. The Director provides fiscal leadership that supports the SCPS Strategic Plan focus area of Efficiency of Operations while maintaining a student-centered, service-oriented approach to financial management.
Qualifications and Requirements
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.
- Master's degree in School Finance, Accounting, Business, or related discipline preferred.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation preferred.
- School Finance & Operations (SFO) certification preferred.
Experience:
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in governmental or school division financial management required.
- Prior experience in Virginia public school finance operations, budgeting, and compliance strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated experience supervising financial teams and overseeing audits or large-scale budgets.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop, recommend, and administer the annual school division budget in collaboration with the Superintendent and School Board.
- Manage financial forecasting, long-range planning, and cost analyses to ensure alignment with division goals.
- Direct all accounting, purchasing, accounts payable, payroll, and grants management operations in accordance with GAAP and VDOE regulations.
- Oversee and prepare all required state, federal, and local financial reports and audits.
- Monitor and ensure compliance with procurement laws, Virginia Public Procurement Act (VPPA), and internal control procedures.
- Advise the Superintendent, School Board, and department leaders on fiscal policy, risk management, and financial implications of division initiatives.
- Supervise and evaluate assigned business office staff.
- Collaborate with County Finance officials, auditors, and external partners to ensure accurate and timely financial communication.
- Manage capital improvement planning, grant oversight, and fund accounting for special revenue programs.
- Support department heads and principals in fiscal decision-making through training and regular budget reviews.
- Ensure transparent fiscal reporting and alignment with SCPS strategic priorities for accountability and operational efficiency.
- Manage
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Expert understanding of GAAP, GASB, and the Virginia Public Procurement Act.
- Proficiency with financial management software (e.g., BAI, Munis, ERP systems, or equivalent).
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to lead with integrity, maintain confidentiality, and model ethical fiscal stewardship.
- Proven ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including County Administration and state agencies.
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission, vision, and values of Sussex County Public Schools.
Working Conditions
Primarily office-based with occasional travel to schools, county offices, or meetings. Must be able to work flexible hours during budget preparation, audits, and School Board presentations.
Evaluation
Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with the School Board's policy and the Superintendent's direction, emphasizing fiscal integrity, team leadership, and alignment with SCPS strategic goals.
