Director of Business Services (ESC)

Position Title:

Director of Business Services

Reports To:

Superintendent

Classification:

Administrator

Terms of Employment:

260-day / full-year position

Anticipated Salary Range:

$120,000 - $130,000

Position Summary

The Director of Business Services serves as the district’s lead financial officer, responsible for the management and oversight of all financial and business operations of the La Porte Community School Corporation. This position provides strategic financial leadership, ensures compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, and supports sound fiscal decision-making aligned to district priorities.

The Director works closely with the Superintendent to develop long-range financial plans, maintain financial stability, and ensure that resources are managed efficiently to support student learning and organizational excellence.

Essential Responsibilities

1. Financial Leadership and Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement long-range financial plans aligned to district goals
• Provide financial analysis, forecasting, and modeling to support strategic decision-making
• Advise the Superintendent on financial risks, opportunities, and implications of proposed initiatives
• Evaluate financial impact of district programs, partnerships, and capital projects

2. Budget Development and Management

• Lead the development of the district’s annual budget in collaboration with the Superintendent
• Ensure all budget documents are prepared, presented, and submitted in accordance with state and local requirements
• Monitor budget allocations, expenditures, and fund balances across all funds
• Maintain strong budgetary controls and recommend adjustments as needed to ensure fiscal stability

3. Financial Operations and Oversight

• Oversee all financial functions, including:
• Accounting
• Payroll
• Accounts payable
• Purchasing and procurement
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with GAAP and State Board of Accounts (SBOA) requirements
• Maintain complete, transparent, and auditable financial records
• Collaborate closely with the Director of Human Resources to ensure alignment between financial systems and human resource functions, including payroll, benefits, staffing allocations, and contractual obligations, in order to support efficient and compliant district operations.

4. Cash Flow, Investments, and Debt Management

• Manage district cash flow to ensure liquidity and financial stability
• Develop and implement investment strategies to maximize returns while ensuring security of funds
• Oversee debt management, including bond issuances and debt service payments
• Monitor referenda funds, capital projects, and other restricted funding sources

5. Audit, Compliance, and Internal Controls

• Coordinate and oversee all internal and external audits
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations
• Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard district assets
• Review audit findings and implement corrective actions as needed

6. Financial Reporting and Board Communication

• Prepare and present regular financial reports to the Superintendent and Board of School Trustees
• Provide clear, accurate, and transparent financial information to support Board decision-making
• Assist in the preparation of financial components of board agenda items and presentations

7. Risk Management and Insurance

• Assist in the management and oversight of the district’s insurance and risk management programs
• Monitor financial exposure and recommend strategies to mitigate risk

8. Team Leadership and Collaboration

• Supervise business office staff and ensure effective and efficient operations
• Provide leadership, training, and evaluation for finance-related personnel
• Collaborate with district leaders and principals to support financial understanding and responsible resource use
• Serve as a key member of the Superintendent’s leadership team

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Business Office Staff - Treasurer and Deputy Treasurer
• Payroll, Accounts Payable, and Finance Personnel

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field required
• Master’s degree preferred
• CPA, CSBO, or IASBO certification preferred
• Minimum of 4–6 years of experience in financial management, preferably in a school or governmental setting
• Strong knowledge of Indiana school finance laws and State Board of Accounts requirements preferred
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting
• Proficiency in financial management systems and software; experience with Boyce Accounting software preferred

Key Attributes

• High level of integrity and confidentiality
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly
• Collaborative and solutions-oriented mindset

Evaluation

Performance of this position will be evaluated by the Superintendent in accordance with Board policy.