Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial School Financial Controller to oversee the financial operations of our charter school network. This role is critical in ensuring financial integrity, compliance, and sustainability while driving innovation and growth. The ideal candidate will be an experienced financial leader who thrives in a fast-moving, mission-driven environment and understands the nuances of school finance.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Oversight

• Lead and manage all aspects of financial operations, including accounting, reporting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and compliance.
• Develop, implement, and monitor financial systems, policies, and internal controls to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Consolidate and analyze financial results for the management company and individual schools, producing timely and accurate reports and dashboards for leadership, board members, and regulatory agencies.
• Liaise with the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and the State Charter Board on required financial metrics, audits, and reporting.

Strategic Growth & Revenue Diversification

• Partner with executives to identify and develop new revenue opportunities, both within Arizona and in other states.
• Provide financial modeling, forecasting, and analysis to support growth initiatives, school management partnerships, and potential acquisitions.
• Monitor funding changes, legislative updates, and opportunities that impact charter school financing.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the executive team, contributing to strategic decision-making and organizational planning.
• Collaborate with school leaders and staff to ensure financial literacy, accountability, and resource optimization.
• Foster a positive company culture through transparent communication, leadership by example, and alignment with organizational values.
• Manage relationships with auditors, external partners, and stakeholders.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Evaluate and optimize financial systems to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
• Use data-driven analysis to proactively identify risks, inefficiencies, and opportunities.
• Stay ahead of industry best practices in both finance and education to bring innovative solutions to the organization.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive financial management experience, including leadership roles.
• Deep knowledge of financial systems, reporting, and compliance.
• Strong background in school finance, charter school funding, or nonprofit finance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred:

• CPA, CMA, or MBA credential.
• Experience working in a charter school network or education management organization (EMO).
• Proven track record of identifying and executing revenue diversification strategies.
• Familiarity with Arizona charter school regulations and ADE reporting requirements.

Attributes of the Ideal Candidate

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Sees opportunities where others see obstacles, innovative in creating new financial pathways.
• Agile & Flexible: Quick to analyze, decide, and act in a fast-changing environment.
• Culture Builder: Understands that financial leadership is not just about numbers, it’s about people and culture.
• Strategic Partner: Can balance financial stewardship with the broader mission of serving students and communities.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a mission-driven organization transforming education for at-risk and underserved students. As Financial Controller, you’ll directly influence the sustainability and growth of our schools, helping us expand our impact across Arizona and beyond.