Director of Finance and Operations

Director of Finance and Operations 

Location: Bellevue, WA 
Start Date: Negotiable (March 1 – July 1, 2026) 
Salary Range: $140,000–$170,000 + comprehensive benefits 

About The Little School 

The Little School is an independent preschool–5th grade school nestled on 12.5 acres of woods and meadows in Bellevue, WA. Our mission is to cultivate authentic learning in community and the natural world, amplifying curiosity and expanding each child’s sense of self, belonging, and possibility. We envision a future rooted in sustainability, justice, and joy. 

The Opportunity 

The Little School seeks a Director of Finance and Operations (DFO) to join our leadership team and help shape the future of our vibrant learning community. 

You are a strategic thinker with a passion for operational excellence and financial stewardship. As DFO, you will be the backbone of our school’s financial health and operational success—overseeing finance, human resources, facilities, risk management, and technology. You’ll work closely with the Head of School and Board to ensure long-term sustainability and contribute to strategic planning that supports our mission and vision. You’ll also collaborate deeply with a high-quality administrative team that cares about the school and each other. 

This is a role for a collaborative leader who thrives on both big-picture strategy and hands-on execution. 

What You’ll Do: 

• Financial Leadership: Manage all accounting functions, cash flow, investments, and capital project budgets. Prepare and present financial reports to leadership and the Board. 

• Budgeting & Strategy: Develop annual budgets, provide long-range financial planning, and support strategic initiatives. 

• Compliance & Audit: Oversee audits, tax filings, and regulatory compliance. 

• Operations Oversight: Lead HR functions, risk management, and supervise technology and facilities teams. 

• Team Leadership: Directly manage a talented operations team and foster a collaborative, mission-aligned culture. 

• Community Engagement: Build strong relationships across the school community and align decisions with our values. 

 What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (MBA, MPA, or CPA preferred). 

• 10+ years of financial leadership experience, ideally in nonprofit or education settings. 

• Expertise in nonprofit accounting, budgeting, and compliance. 

• Strong supervisory experience and ability to lead cross-functional teams. 

• A commitment to collaboration and learning in service of the school. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks Online. Experience with Blackbaud a plus. 

• Strategic thinker with exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving skills. 

Why Join Us? 

• Competitive salary and benefits (health, vision, dental, retirement). 

• A leadership role with meaningful impact in a mission-driven school. 

• A beautiful natural campus and a warm, inclusive community. 

How to Apply 

Send your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to: 
employment@thelittleschool.org 

Want more information? Please visit our Employment page for a view into the full job description.  

The Little School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, or family composition.