Position Overview
The Cornerstone School in Ocala, FL 34471 is seeking an experienced and mission‑driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead financial and operational stewardship for our growing independent school community. The CFO will serve as a strategic partner to the Head of School and the Board of Trustees, ensuring fiscal sustainability, sound financial planning, and effective operational systems that support excellence in teaching and learning. Responsibilities include financial management, budgeting, forecasting, internal controls, risk management, human resources support, compliance, and oversight of school business operations. This is a full‑time, exempt, 12‑month position, with a focus on keeping the school financially strong while expanding programs and facilities to meet evolving educational needs.
Reporting Relationship
The CFO reports directly to the Head of School and collaborates closely with the Board Treasurer and the Finance Committee.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Financial Leadership: Act as the school’s chief financial strategist to support long‑term sustainability and growth. Partner with the Head of School and Board on financial planning aligned with strategic priorities. Develop multi‑year projections and scenario planning models. Provide regular board reporting, including dashboards, forecasts, and variance analyses.
- Budgeting and Financial Planning: Lead the annual budgeting process with school leadership. Monitor departmental budgets and promote prudent financial decision‑making. Create tuition models, forecast financial aid needs, and plan enrollment‑based revenue.
- Accounting and Financial Reporting: Oversee accounts payable/receivable, payroll coordination, and general ledger management. Ensure timely monthly financial statements and internal reporting. Manage annual audit preparation and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors. Maintain strong internal controls and financial policies.
- Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local financial and employment regulations. Oversee insurance coverage (property, liability, workers compensation, etc.) and coordinate renewals. Support risk management planning including emergency readiness and financial contingency planning.
- Cash Flow and Asset Management: Monitor cash flow and reserves to ensure operational stability. Manage banking relationships and cash management strategies. Oversee capital expenditures and major purchasing processes.
- Human Resources and Benefits Oversight: In coordination with the Head of School, support payroll and benefits administration and ensure compliance with employment practices. Assist with compensation planning, salary benchmarking, and benefits strategy. Support personnel policies, contracts, and staff onboarding processes.
- Facilities and Operational Oversight: Provide financial oversight of facilities planning, maintenance budgeting, and vendor contracts. Support capital project planning and long‑term campus improvement forecasting. Assist with contract negotiation for major vendors and service providers.
- Advancement Support: Provide financial guidance for fundraising and capital campaign planning. Support donor stewardship through reporting and financial accountability for restricted gifts. Ensure proper tracking and reporting of donations and grant funding.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field
- Minimum of 7+ years of progressive financial leadership experience
- Strong knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, accounting practices, and financial reporting
- Experience preparing for audits and working with external auditors
- High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism
- Strong analytical and communication skills; ability to explain financial information clearly to non‑financial stakeholders
Preferred
- CPA or MBA strongly preferred
- Experience in independent schools, nonprofit organizations, or education‑related finance
- Familiarity with tuition‑based revenue models and financial aid planning
- Experience supporting strategic planning and capital projects
- Knowledge of nonprofit financial compliance, including 990 preparation support
Core Competencies
- Mission‑aligned leadership and collaborative mindset
- Strategic thinking and long‑range planning
- Strong systems orientation and operational discipline
- Clear communication and board‑level professionalism
- Problem‑solving and financial modeling expertise
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced school environment
Work Environment and Expectations
This is an on‑campus leadership role requiring occasional evening availability for Board meetings and school events. The CFO will operate in a community‑centered environment where relationships, trust, and professionalism are essential.
Compensation and Benefits
Pay: $76,628.32 - $92,283.56 per year
Benefits: 401(k) matching, dental insurance, health insurance, life insurance, paid time off, vision insurance
Work Location: In person
