Executive Director of Finance, Operations and Safety

Position Summary:

The Executive Director of Finance, Operations, & Safety provides leadership and oversight of the district's financial, business management, operations, and safety. The role ensures efficient, effective, and compliant management of district resources, including budgeting, accounting, purchasing, facilities management, payroll and benefits, and the preparation of all budgetary and financial information to the School Board, Superintendent, and other outside entities. The Executive Director of Finance, Operations, & Safety is also responsible for facilities maintenance, custodial services, grounds management, as well as personnel of the district engaged in the operations and business office.

Licensure Required:

• Requires a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, Education Administration, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Three or more years of experience in a school district or public sector finance, operations, or related fields.
• Demonstrate success in financial management, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws governing public school districts.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• MASBO certification and/or CPA preferred.

Compensation:

$135,000-$160,000 annual salary, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits for this position follow the and include: 403b matching, PTO, health and dental insurance, VEBA annual contribution, access to Well@Work Clinic and Healthiest You, long term disability and life insurance.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Executive Oversight: Serve as the Chief Financial Officer, managing fiscal operations, internal controls, and policies to ensure compliance with GAAP, UFARS accounting procedures, and the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE).
• Budget Development: Develop, propose, and implement all board-approved annual budgets; perform revenue forecasting, expenditure tracking, cash flow management, and federal grant budgeting.
• Levy & Taxation: Compile and analyze levy data, provide clear recommendations, and present necessary information for annual levy certification and Truth-in-Taxation hearings.
• Audits & Disclosures: Lead the annual district audit process as the primary liaison with external auditors; manage annual bond disclosures and semi-annual bond payments.
• District Operations: Oversee all district facilities, maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and food service-related budgets to ensure operational efficiency.
• Long-Term Planning: Develop and maintain the Long-Term Facilities Maintenance (LTFM) 10-year plan; assist in the oversight of district renovation and construction projects.
• Transportation & Logistics: Manage annual transportation reporting, approve special transportation requests, and administer nonpublic school aid and transportation coordination.
• Procurement: Manage vendor contract processes, gathering competitive bids and quotes for food service, facilities, transportation, and insurance.
• Safety Coordination: Co-lead the District Safety Committee, overseeing emergency response plans, crisis management protocols, and district-wide safety compliance.
• Labor Relations: Serve as a core member of the District's labor negotiating team for union and non-union personnel; provide comprehensive financial costing models for employment contracts.
• Benefits & Insurance: Review and manage property/liability insurance coverage alongside employee insurance and benefits programs in conjunction with Human Resources.

Data Compliance:

• Update and verify Average Daily Membership (ADM) data on the MDE website; manage Special Education (SpEd) and Care & Treatment tuition billing.

Albert Lea Area Schools…

Inspiring Learners and Cultivating Growth to positively impact our community.

Visit our community! Explore Albert Lea @ https://www.explorealbertlea.com/

Pay: $135,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $135,000 - $160,000