Chief Financial Officer

Merion Mercy Academy, an independent Catholic college preparatory school for girls in grades 9-12 outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, seeks a Chief Financial Officer. 

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Merion Mercy Academy is responsible for leading the financial strategy and operations of the school. This role requires an experienced finance professional with a strong background in financial planning, budgeting, financial management, and operations in the educational sector. The CFO will work closely with the President, Board of Trustees, and other administrators to ensure the financial health and sustainability of the school.

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial Strategy, Planning and Budgeting:

• Develop and execute the school’s financial strategy, aligning it with the overall mission and goals of the school.
• Prepare and present annual budgets, forecasts, and financial reports to the Board of Trustees and senior leadership.
• Lead the budgeting process, working collaboratively with department heads to create and manage departmental budgets.
• Monitor financial performance against budgets and forecasts, providing insights and recommendations to improve financial health.

• Financial and Human Resource Management:

• Oversee all financial functions including accounting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, purchasing, investments, and financial reporting.
• Ensure the school’s financial policies and information technology support accurate and efficient financial reporting.
• Oversee all human resource functions, including payroll, benefits management, and policy and procedure compliance.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

• Facilities Management:

• Develop and implement capital improvement plans for the improvement of school facilities, ensuring they meet educational needs and safety standards.
• Oversee long-term facilities project planning, including construction, renovation, and maintenance of classrooms, athletic facilities, and administrative buildings.
• In collaboration with the Facilities Director, oversee the day-to-day operations and maintenance of school facilities ensuring they are safe, clean, and conducive to learning.
• Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with external vendors and contractors providing maintenance, cleaning, and renovation services.
• Ensure quality service and adherence to contract terms, performance metrics, and school standards.

• Safety and Compliance:

• Ensure all facilities comply with health and safety regulations, including fire codes, accessibility standards, and environmental regulations.
• Develop and implement policies related to facility usage, safety protocols, and emergency preparedness.

• Risk Management:

• Assess and manage financial risks, ensuring appropriate internal controls and risk mitigation strategies are in place.
• Advise on insurance and risk management strategies to protect the school's assets.

• Stakeholder Engagement:

• Act as the primary liaison between the school and financial partners, including banks, auditors, and investment advisors.
• Collaborate with the Board Finance Committee to provide updates and insights on financial matters.

• Compliance and Governance:

• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards, including tax and reporting requirements.
• Support the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures.

• Leadership and Team Development:

• Lead and mentor the business office staff, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.
• Promote a culture of transparency and accountability in all financial operations.

Founded in 1884 by the Sisters of Mercy and located on a beautiful 12-acre campus on Philadelphia’s Main Line, Merion Mercy currently enrolls over 400 students from diverse geographic areas and socioeconomic groups. Merion Mercy’s academic program consistently challenges each student to prepare for college and a lifetime of service, thus developing competent and compassionate women for the future. Merion Mercy’s faculty and staff are committed to providing a holistic education that not only stresses academic and personal excellence but also encourages all students to “Live Mercy and Seek Justice,” an educational philosophy that builds a true sense of sisterhood that extends beyond the classroom.

Merion Mercy Academy embraces diversity and inclusion through its mission, Mercy identity and student body.  Merion Mercy Academy is committed to providing an educational and working environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. Members of the community, applicants for employment or admissions, guests and visitors have the right to be free from harassment or discrimination based on race, color, religion, ancestry, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, national origin, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Interested candidates should send a resume, cover letter and contact information for three professional references to Anne Gregg, Executive Assistant to the Head of School, agregg@merion-mercy.com.

More information about working at Merion Mercy Academy can be found at: www.merion-mercy.com/careers.