Chief Finance And Operations Officer (, CT, United States)

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Carney, Sandoe & Associates , an education recruitment firm, has been retained by an independent school in Western Connecticut to find their next Chief Finance and Operations Officer .

The school seeks an experienced and strategic-minded professional to serve as the school’s Chief Finance and Operations Officer (CFOO).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Keep the Head of School apprised of all business, operational, and financial matters.
• Responsible for all business aspects of the school, including finance, investments, facilities, risk management, human resources, information technology, and other operational functions. The CFOO will focus on strategic and financial planning, maintain fiscal discipline, oversee capital projects, and ensure proper administration of financial resources such as endowment, cash, and debt.
• Lead and manage financial and business office operations, including accounting, accounts payable, revenue, collections, and internal controls.
• Oversee, lead, supervise, and evaluate staff such as the Controller, Accounts Payable and Office Manager, Senior Staff Accountant-Revenue, Director of Human Resources, Director of Facilities, Security and School Resource Officer, Health Room personnel, Director of Technology, Chef and Director of Food Services, and transportation staff.
• Mentor staff involved in budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, financial reporting, and facility management.
• Coordinate and collect financial data from departments for the annual budget.
• Ensure best practices in student enrollment and tuition assistance; collaborate with Admissions and Financial Aid to support recruitment, retention, and maximize revenue.
• Analyze financial and operational data to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for new initiatives.
• Advise and prepare reports for the Head of School and Administration on finance and facilities; recommend strategies, benchmarks, and metrics.
• Oversee the preparation of financial reports, analyses, and forecasts.
• Manage payroll and HR in coordination with PECF staff, ensuring compliance, benefits administration, and employee support.
• Act as Project Manager for interdepartmental projects, including budgeting, cost analysis, and vendor liaison.
• Review and administer all school contracts.
• Oversee daily operations such as safety, energy, IT, facilities, and custodial services.
• Manage third-party vendors related to food services, facilities, and construction.
• Maintain relationships with consultants and vendors.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum ten years of financial leadership in independent schools, nonprofits, or similar settings.
• Advanced degree in business or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
• Strong background in finance, budgeting, investing, and cash management.
• Experience in facilities management or construction is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to DEIB principles and compatibility with the school’s culture.
• Experience in budgeting, financial forecasting, endowment management, accounting, HR, and facilities oversight.
• Ability to analyze complex financial data and communicate effectively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel, Tableau, PowerPoint, or similar tools.
• Leadership experience in supervising teams, providing feedback, and mentoring.
• Ability to collaborate with senior leaders to achieve mission-driven outcomes.
• Experience in educational or not-for-profit organizations is advantageous.

About CS&A

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Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Education

Industries

• Primary and Secondary Education