Finance Manager

Job Title: Finance Manager

Location: Southern Avenue Charter School

Reports To: Executive Director

FLSA Status: Exempt; 12-month employee

POSITION SUMMARY

The Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of Southern Avenue Charter School, ensuring accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and sound fiscal management. This position manages the school's accounting functions, budgeting processes, cash flow, and financial records while supporting the school's mission through effective stewardship of financial resources. The Finance Manager works closely with the Executive Director, school leadership, and external auditors to maintain the financial integrity of the organization.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare and maintain accurate financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Develop, monitor, and manage the school's annual operating budget and assist department leaders with budget planning.
• Perform monthly bank reconciliations and ensure all accounts are reconciled accurately and timely.
• Oversee accounts payable, ensuring invoices are processed accurately and vendors are paid on time.
• Manage accounts receivable, including monitoring outstanding balances and ensuring timely collection of funds.
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure all financial transactions are recorded in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for school leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Monitor cash flow and recommend strategies to maintain the school's financial stability.
• Assist with annual financial audits and coordinate the preparation of supporting schedules and documentation requested by external auditors.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and charter school financial reporting requirements.
• Prepare financial reports for grants and assist with grant compliance and reimbursement requests as needed.
• Monitor internal controls and recommend improvements to safeguard school assets.
• Assist with payroll-related accounting and benefit reconciliations as needed.
• Analyze financial data and provide recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial information and employee records.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field required. CPA, CMA, or Master's degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of three to five years of progressively responsible accounting or financial management experience.
• Experience in K-12 education, charter schools, nonprofit organizations, or governmental accounting preferred.
• Experience with accounting software and Microsoft Excel required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls.
• Experience preparing financial statements and managing month-end and year-end close processes.
• Ability to analyze financial information and communicate findings clearly to leadership.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.
• Occasionally lift and move up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel occasionally for meetings or professional development, if required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position operates primarily in an office environment within a school setting.
• The Finance Manager may occasionally work additional hours during budget preparation, audit periods, and fiscal year-end closing.