Director of Finance
Reports To: Superintendent
Position Overview:
The Director of Finance is responsible for managing and overseeing all financial operations of the school district, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, purchasing, and reporting. This position ensures fiscal integrity, compliance with federal and state regulations, and effective stewardship of public funds. In a small district environment, the Director of Finance serves both as a strategic advisor to the Superintendent and Board of Education and as a hands-on manager of day-to-day financial processes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Budget Development and Management
Develops, monitors, and maintains the district’s annual budget in collaboration with the Superintendent, district, and school leaders.
Provides financial forecasts, analysis, and recommendations to support district planning and decision-making.
Prepares and presents monthly financial statements and budget updates to the Board of Education.
Accounting and Payroll Operations
Oversees and participates in daily accounting activities including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll processing, and general ledger reconciliation.
Maintains accurate and timely financial records in accordance with GAAP and state reporting requirements.
Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local financial reporting deadlines.
Purchasing and Compliance
Manages the district’s purchasing and procurement process in compliance with state regulations and local policy.
Reviews and approves purchase orders, bids, and contracts.
Ensures appropriate internal controls are in place to safeguard district assets.
Audit and Financial Reporting
Prepares and coordinates the annual audit, providing all necessary documentation and responses.
Implements corrective actions based on audit findings, if applicable.
Prepares and submits required reports to the Georgia Department of Education and other agencies.
Cash Flow and Revenue Management
Monitors district cash flow and maintains relationships with local banks and financial institutions.
Oversees the receipt and accounting of state, federal, and local revenues.
Tracks grant funds and special program budgets to ensure compliance and accurate reporting.
Leadership and Collaboration
Supervises finance and payroll staff, providing direction, training, and support.
Works closely with school and district administrators to provide financial guidance and clarity.
Serves as a resource to the Superintendent and Board in matters of fiscal planning, efficiency, and policy development.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ability to manage multiple financial functions in a small-district setting
Knowledge of Georgia school finance laws, QBE funding, and local budget processes
Proficiency with spreadsheets, financial databases, and Microsoft Office applications
Capacity to work independently while maintaining accuracy and transparency
Commitment to ethical fiscal management and public accountability
Physical Demands:
Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment with occasional travel to schools and meetings.
Minimum Qualifications:
Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred
Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of experience in accounting or finance; school district or government experience preferred
Working knowledge of GAAP, GASB, and state financial reporting procedures
Experience with accounting software systems such as Smartfusion, Munis, or PCGenesis preferred
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
FLSA Status: Exempt
240 day work year
