Director of Finance and Operations

Position Details

SUMMARY : The Director of Finance oversees all district financial and business functions, including budget development, accounting, audits, bonding, grants, purchasing, payroll, and employee benefits.

This role also supervises operational departments such as Facilities, Transportation, Food Services, and the Business Office.

Working closely with the Superintendent, the Director ensures that financial and operational resources align with district strategic goals and comply with legal requirements.

Required Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or Accounting, with a substantial fund accounting background.
• Minimum of five years of leadership experience in finance or operations.
• Appropriate maintenance of administrative continuing education requirements
• Possession or eligibility for MSBO Chief Financial Officer Certification.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Michigan Public School Accounting Manual.
• Demonstrated experience in budget development, financial forecasting, audits, and risk management.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Advanced Degree (CPA or MBA).
• Experience working in school finance and / or accounting.
• Michigan Central Office (CO) endorsement.
• Experience with capital projects, bond financing, or facilities operations.
• Familiarity with collective bargaining and contract negotiations.
• Experience working with community stakeholders and external partners.
• Knowledge of internal controls, external audits, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Duties and Responsibilities :

• Lead the district’s financial strategy, including budget development, forecasting, and long-term planning, ensuring alignment with the goals set by the Superintendent and Board of Education.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, audits, and reporting requirements while maintaining financial transparency with stakeholders (board, superintendent, and state agencies).
• Complete state and federal reporting requirements, including FID, SE-4096, SE-4094, Medicaid, Title I, GSRP Quarterly Financials, and other grant-related reports.
• Direct the Directors of Facilities, Transportation, and Food Service to ensure their departments meet district objectives and operate efficiently.
• Supervise the Business Office team, ensuring effective and efficient financial operations, including payroll, accounts payable, purchasing, and overall district financial health.
• Administer liability and casualty insurance programs and oversee benefits administration in compliance with laws and policies.
• Support the Superintendent in collective bargaining, including contract interpretation and alignment with financial goals.
• Develop and implement internal control policies to ensure financial compliance and risk mitigation strategies.
• Prepare audit workpapers and ensure alignment with the Michigan Public School Accounting Manual, maintaining an accurate chart of accounts.
• Guide financing of bonds, sinking funds, and capital improvement projects to align with district infrastructure goals.
• Manage district cash flow, investment activities, and tax levies, ensuring compliance with the Headlee Amendment, Truth in Taxation, and other legal requirements.
• Provide strategic oversight on capital planning and facility development in coordination with the Director of Facilities and Operations.
• Provide recommendations on bond and millage elections, including financial projections, timing, and communication to the public.
• Monitor school and departmental budgets for cost-effective use of resources across operations.
• Oversee vendor management, ensuring compliance with purchasing agreements and contracts.
• Ensure vendor performance evaluations and negotiations for major contracts to align with district cost-effectiveness.
• Administer the district-wide purchase card program, ensuring effective management and compliance.
• Collaborate with school and district leaders on personnel management, payroll compliance, and policy enforcement.
• Engage with community stakeholders on matters related to bond measures, capital projects, and public transparency in financial decisions.
• Serve as a member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet Team, attending board and committee meetings to provide business and operational insights.
• Attend Board of Education meetings and prepare financial reports and memos for Board action and decision-making.

Reports to : Superintendent

Supervises : Business Office, Directors of Transportation, Facilities and Operations, and Food Service

Terms of Employment : Full-time, Exempt, 12-month administrative position

Compensation : Salary range : $130,000 $155,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications; comprehensive benefits package

Application Deadline : Applications will be accepted until end-of-day November 25, 2024. The position will remain open until filled.

Haslett Public Schools is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who are committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace.