Director of Finance & Human Resources (Position Available July 1, 2026)

Overview

The Kew-Forest School, an independent, co-educational day school serving students in Preschool through Grade 12, seeks a collaborative and strategic Director of Finance & Human Resources to begin July 1, 2026.

Located in Forest Hills, Queens, Kew-Forest is a diverse and inclusive school community shaped by New York City’s global character. Since its founding in 1918, the School has been committed to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and an educational experience that prepares students to think critically, act thoughtfully, and engage confidently with the world.

Reporting directly to the Head of School, the Director of Finance & Human Resources is a senior administrative leader responsible for the School’s financial stewardship, business office operations, human resources administration, and selected operational functions. This is a high-impact role for a leader who is equally comfortable with long-range planning, day-to-day management, and clear communication across a range of constituencies.

Kew-Forest is in an important period of long-term planning and implementation. The School is focused on strengthening its financial sustainability, aligning resources with strategic priorities, supporting enrollment growth, sustaining affordability, and managing operations with discipline and care. The Director of Finance & Human Resources will play a central role in that work, in close partnership with the Head of School, senior administrators, and the Board of Trustees.

Primary Responsibilities

Financial Leadership and Planning

• Lead the development, oversight, and reporting of the School’s annual operating budget and long-range financial plans;
• Partner with the Head of School and Board leadership on financial strategy, forecasting, and resource allocation;
• Oversee financial policies, internal controls, reporting, and compliance;
• Coordinate the annual financial audit and ensure timely completion of required tax filings and related financial reporting; and
• Support clear, accurate financial reporting that strengthens institutional decision-making.
  
  

Board and Committee Support

• Serve as liaison to the Finance, Audit, and Buildings & Grounds Committees of the Board of Trustees;
• Prepare financial reports, supporting materials, and presentations for committee and Board meetings; and
• Work closely with the Board Treasurer and other trustees on matters related to fiscal oversight and planning.
  
  

Business Office Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the Business Office, including payroll, accounts payable, tuition billing, purchasing, and related functions;
• Supervise the Business Office Assistant and promote efficient, accurate, and responsive service; and
• Ensure sound processes, strong controls, and operational consistency across Business Office functions.
  
  

Human Resources and Benefits Administration

• Collaborate with the Business Office Assistant to oversee core human resources functions, including benefits administration, employment practices, and HR-related compliance;
• Administer employee benefit programs, including health insurance and retirement plans; and
• Partner with the Head of School on hiring/onboarding, employee transitions, and personnel matters.
  
  

Operations, Facilities, and Risk Management

• Oversee key operational areas, including technology and food service;
• Partner with the Director of Facilities & Safety on capital planning, maintenance, security, and stewardship of the School’s physical plant;
• Manage facility rentals and support planning related to capital projects; and
• Work with legal counsel and insurance partners on risk management matters.
  
  

Strategic and Cross-Functional Leadership

• Serve as a member of the Tuition Assistance Committee;
• Develop reporting tools and data summaries on key financial, admissions, and fundraising trends, for the Head of School and Board; and
• Contribute to cross-functional planning in support of the School’s strategic goals.
  
  

Required

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Significant experience in financial and business leadership
• Demonstrated success in budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and operational oversight
• Experience supervising staff and managing multiple priorities with sound judgment and attention to detail
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  
  

Preferred

• CPA, MBA, or other relevant advanced credential in finance, accounting, or business
• Experience working closely with a senior leadership team
• Experience supporting or partnering with a Board of Trustees or Board committees
• Experience in an independent school, non-profit, or other mission-driven organization
• Experience with human resources and employee benefits administration
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, & Disposition

• A collaborative and steady leadership style
• Strategic thinking and practical problem-solving ability
• Strong organizational skills and follow-through
• Integrity, discretion, and good judgment
• The ability to build trust across a diverse school community
• A genuine commitment to the mission and values of The Kew-Forest School
  
  

Compensation

$145,000-$170,000, commensurate with experience, and a robust benefits package.

To apply, please send a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three professional references to: Director of Finance & Human Resources Committee ( adminopening@kewforest.org )

The Kew-Forest School is an equal opportunity employer. We seek to build and sustain a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, and encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will enrich our community.

MISSION

We are The Kew-Forest School.

Our community nurtures lifelong learners from around the world.

Our educators inspire young people to think boldly and find their voices.

Our students support each other and explore thoughtfully as they shape the future.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Kew-Forest School believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunity. The School prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, culture, background, physical or mental disability, or any other legally protected classes or classifications. No employee or job applicant will be discriminated against in recruitment, compensation, promotion, or termination practices.