Job Description

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) provides leadership, direction, and oversight of all financial operations within the district, ensuring fiscal responsibility, transparency, and alignment with the district’s strategic priorities. The CFO administers the business affairs of the system to provide the best educational services with available financial resources and is responsible for a financial management system that reflects the financial condition of the board of education on a timely and accurate basis. The CFO advises the Superintendent and Board of Education on all budgetary and financial matters, ensuring effective resource allocation to support student success.

This role requires a deep understanding of public-school finance, urban district challenges, and compliance with state and federal regulations. The CFO ensures that financial decisions uphold equity, sustainability, and long-term district stability while adhering to recognized accounting and financial principles. The position oversees budget planning, financial reporting, grants management, payroll, and procurement, working collaboratively across departments to ensure sound financial stewardship and operational efficiency.

Essential Responsibilities

• Maintain open communication with the Superintendent.
• Assist in performing all tasks required to achieve the District’s goals.
• Train and develop financial staff to employ best practices.
• Serve as a liaison with external auditors, state education department, and government officials.
• Implement the RCSD Strategic Plan by fostering relationships at various government levels.
• Ensure procurement compliance with government standards.
• Manage the District’s annual budget to support academic initiatives, interpret legislative guidance, and monitor compliance.
• Safeguard financial assets through internal controls.
• Represent the Superintendent at District Finance Committee meetings.
• Monitor banking activities and manage cash flow.

Fiscal Management

• Maintain an accounting system in accordance with accepted standards.
• Implement and monitor internal budget and accounting procedures.
• Maximize revenue through oversight of revenue-generating activities.
• Supervise grant expenditures and compliance reporting.
• Authorize fund transfers for unanticipated expenditures.
• Maintain property classification and inventory systems.

Reporting

• Supervise preparation and transmission of financial reports to authorities.
• Prepare special reports on operations as requested.
• Oversee monthly financial reporting and communicate findings.

Financial Planning

• Prepare long and short-term budgets and financial plans.
• Review monthly cash flow statements.
• Coordinate with the City of Rochester on borrowing and investment strategies.
• Ensure budgeting aligns with district equity goals.
• Support state and federal grant applications with financial data.
• Evaluate and recommend budget adjustments based on resource changes.

Insurance Management

• Develop risk management programs with legal counsel.
• Report covered losses and analyze insurance quotations.
• Audit insurance coverage periodically.
• Manage insurance review and renewal calendar.

Supervision

• Oversee the Finance Business Unit, including various departments.
• Provide leadership, evaluation, and professional development for financial staff.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics

• Deep knowledge of budgeting, accounting, debt, and investment practices.
• Ability to plan, supervise, and communicate effectively.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and ethical standards.

Education, Experience, and Certification

• Master’s degree in a relevant field; CPA preferred.
• Certification as a NYS School District Business Leader or Business Administrator.
• Minimum 8 years in public sector management, including 3 years in a supervisory role.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs