The Director of Finance and Operations is responsible for the school’s financial planning and risk management. This involves general oversight and participation in the school's finance and HR and extended programs, including summer programs. The director safeguards the school's resources and oversees the design and implementation of critical policies and procedures.
Strategic Direction and Financial Oversight
Report to the Head of School, participates as a collaborative member of the leadership team, and serves as a trusted advisor to the Head, leadership team, and Board of Trustees.
Provide strategic direction for appropriate and maximum use of financial resources to achieve the school’s strategic priorities and maintain the long-term health of the school.
Build multi-year models for operational and capital budgets, and in partnership with the Head of School and Board of Trustees, realign existing resources when necessary.
Work collaboratively with the Treasurer and provide effective communication, presentations, and updates to the full Board of Trustees.
Publicly represent the school positively and proactively way, collaborating with other school administrators, faculty, staff, parents, students, and public officials.
Compliance, Risk Management, and Reporting
Oversee internal controls, cash management, banking relationships, and asset management, and maintain accurate and timely continuous records on the financial position of the school.
Ensure that the school is in compliance with all local and state reporting requirements.
Ensure the successful completion of the annual independent audit.
Monitor and mitigate risk through a comprehensive risk management program.
Provide transparent financial reporting and planning to build trust among administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, parents, and trustees.
Human Resources
Coordinate human resources responsibilities including, employee relations, benefits and compensation, and payroll and 401K administration.
Maintains compliance with governmental regulations and changing regulatory environment by staying current on laws and regulations that may affect compliance with support from benefits broker and human resource consultant.
Facilities, General Leadership and Administration
Oversees all facilities management, including building repairs, construction, security, and janitorial. Works with our Property Management company to ensure the campus is in pristine
Supervise the business office team, which currently comprises one staff member.
Collaborate with the Student Life Coordinator, who oversees after-school and summer programs.
Direct the financial aid process in conjunction with the financial aid committee.
Assist with particular school-related projects as requested, and perform other duties as assigned.
Professional Qualifications
Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field, which is a minimum requirement; an advanced degree preferred.
5+ years of experience as a business manager, preferably in an educational or nonprofit setting.
Previous supervisory and governance experience, preferably in an educational or nonprofit setting.
A comprehensive skill set for oversight of financial reporting, budgets, investments, accounting, HR, contracts, risk management, and auxiliary programs
Leadership and personal qualities
A smart and confident decision maker who operates with integrity, collaborates with sincerity, counsels with affability, and teaches with humility.
A listener who analyzes complex situations and helps to build consensus.
A willingness to both fully understand the inner workings of a school that is constantly innovating and lead a business office in support of that culture.
An open mind that asks questions, learns from others, and brings a “Let’s see how we can do it” approach to problem-solving.
An ability to create organizational systems and apply project management skills.
Authentic empathy, warmth, and collegiality, and an ability to spread these qualities across an entire staff.
An ability to work under pressure, plan personal workload effectively and delegate.
An available and responsive department head to internal and external constituents.
Savvy communication and dynamic presentation skills—both written and oral.
A collaborative, cooperative, and growth-oriented mindset.
A love of education and a willingness to support innovative teaching and learning at a Preschool -8, independent school.
Working Environment
Occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.
Generally works in standard office conditions and climate.
Works in an environment dealing with a wide variety of challenges and deadlines.
May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time.
May work evenings and weekends for school events.
About Atlanta Academy
Atlanta Academy, located in Roswell, serves 375 private preschool-8th grade students in North Fulton. Small classes allow teachers to understand students' individual strengths and help them discover their unique talents. The nurturing culture fosters good character in students alongside academic success, well-being, and happiness—our belief in educating the whole child results in students experiencing excitement and joy in the classroom.
Our forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and skills while providing students with various opportunities to succeed at prestigious private high schools and top-ranking public schools.
High-performing student achievement is nurtured in our non-denominational, family-engaged atmosphere. Teachers model and instill values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty. Together, we are fully invested in helping children grow into well-educated, independent problem-solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond.
