Chief Financial Officer in Bridgeport, Connecticut at GREAT OAKS CHARTER SCHOOL - BRIDGEPORT INC.
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Job Description
Chief Financial Officer
Great Oaks Charter School - Bridgeport | District
About Great Oaks Charter School, Bridgeport
Three things are true about us.
One. We know education is demanding, so we make sure you never do it alone.
Whether you are an experienced educator or just starting your journey, we invest in your growth from day one. For those entering the field, we offer flexible temporary certification options along with step-by-step guidance and support to help you earn your permanent certification. Across every grade level, educators at Great Oaks receive dedicated weekly Professional Development, 1-on-1 instructional coaching, and embedded AmeriCorps tutors in ELA and Math classrooms to share the load. We know how tough this industry can be, and we actively strive to lift the burden wherever we can.
We are not a school that throws you into a classroom and expects you to sink or swim.
Two. We protect your energy and respect your life outside of school.
Great education requires rested, fulfilled professionals. All staff enjoy paid school holidays off, built-in calendar breaks, and a leadership team that genuinely respects your work-life balance. We are committed to helping you build a sustainable, long-term career in education—not exhausting your passion.
We are not interested in burning people out and replacing them. We are interested in building careers.
Three. Our culture is built on real collaboration and genuine appreciation.
We all work toward the same goal—student success—and we reach it by taking care of our team. Great Oaks is a place where colleagues actually show up for one another, share resources, and step in to help. Beyond the day-to-day teamwork, we make time to recognize your hard work with staff appreciation events, celebrations, and genuine gratitude throughout the year.
We are not a place where you work in isolation. We win, grow, and celebrate together.
If that sounds like the kind of place you want to work, keep reading.
Position Summary
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Great Oaks Charter School, Bridgeport, is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the financial operations and strategies of the school. The CFO will provide strategic financial guidance, ensure the integrity of financial systems, develop structures and implement procedures in accordance with our Fiscal Operations Policies, and lead the development and implementation of long-term financial planning. This position requires expertise in financial management, budgeting, payroll, and compliance within the education sector.
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Management:
Provide oversight of daily financial operations, ensuring accurate and efficient transaction processing, cash management, and financial record-keeping.
Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and controls to safeguard the school's assets.
Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and provide timely and accurate financial reports to the CEO, school administration, and Board of Directors.
Collaborate with school leadership to develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the school's mission and goals.
Budgeting and Forecasting:
Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with school administrators and department heads to develop realistic and comprehensive budgets.
Monitor budget execution, track spending patterns, and provide regular updates and recommendations to ensure financial targets are met.
Conduct financial analysis and forecasting to support informed decision-making and long-term financial planning.
Identify areas of potential cost savings and efficiency improvements to optimize resource allocation.
Payroll Management:
Oversee the payroll function, ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for all school staff.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations and reporting requirements.
Offer assistance to Human Resources regarding employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits.
Provide guidance and support to Human Resources on payroll-related matters, including tax withholding, deductions, and reimbursements.
Compliance, Reporting, and Grant Acquisition:
Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations, accounting standards, and charter school laws.
Prepare and submit required financial reports to government agencies, grantors, and other stakeholders.
Coordinate and oversee external audits and reviews of financial records.
Assist in acquiring grants by providing financial data and support in proposal development.
Prepare state and grant reports, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
Financial Planning and Strategy:
Develop and implement long-term financial plans and strategies that align with the school's mission and objectives.
Conduct financial analysis and scenario modeling to evaluate the financial impact of potential initiatives and strategic decisions.
Provide recommendations to improve financial performance, enhance revenue generation, and mitigate financial risks.
Collaborate with school leadership in strategic planning, including expansion efforts and capital projects.
Attend State organized finance or finance-connected meetings regarding funding, grant opportunities, reporting, etc.
Reporting and Leadership:
Report directly to the CEO and serve as a key member of the executive leadership team.
Manage members of the finance team or any outside finance resources.
Provide regular financial updates and analysis to the CEO, ensuring transparency and accuracy in financial reporting.
Collaborate with the CEO and senior leaders on financial decision-making, ensuring alignment with the school's goals and objectives.
Act as a liaison to the Board of Directors, providing financial reports, insights, and recommendations during board meetings.
Serve as a member of the Finance Committee, providing financial expertise, guidance, and support in developing financial policies and strategies for the school.
Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the CEO concerning finance initiatives, student support through finance, staff and AmeriCorps improvements and initiatives, and other related new projects.
What We Are Looking For
Requirements:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
Leadership Experience: 5+ years of senior financial management experience, including oversight of budgeting, forecasting, and payroll operations.
Financial Acumen: Deep knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP), internal financial controls, variance analysis, and cash flow management.
Governance & Audit: Proven track record leading external financial audits and presenting financial strategy to executive leadership and boards of directors.
Preferred Qualifications
Charter/K-12 Experience: Prior experience in charter schools, public education, or non-profit fund accounting.
Advanced Credentials: CPA license, Master’s degree (MBA/MSA), or Certified School Business Official credential.
Grants & State Compliance: Expertise with state education funding, federal grants, and state-level compliance reporting.
What You Can Expect From Us
Competitive salary range: $115,000 - $125,000
Medical, Dental, and Vision options
403b Plan
Life insurance
Short and Long Term Disability
Paid Time Off
Holiday Pay
Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on student's lives and education.
Professional development and training opportunities.
Collaborative and supportive work environment.
Meaningful connections with fellow educators, students, and the community.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Great Oaks Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.