Chief Financial Officer

Des Moines Public School District • Chicago, IA

2d

About The Position

Des Moines Public Schools is hiring a Chief Financial Officer for the 2027–2028 school year. The CFO oversees the district’s budgeting, accounting, financial management, and reporting. The role is a key advisor to the Superintendent and a member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet, requiring independent judgment, autonomous decision-making, and strategic foresight in leading the district’s business and finance area.

The position coordinates major financial initiatives, leads cross-functional efforts to improve financial efficiency and resource allocation, and works collaboratively with schools and departments. The CFO coordinates external audits, oversees preparation of key district financial documents and reports, serves as district administrator of the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System, attends all Board meetings as a resource, and serves as Board treasurer with responsibility for treasury management and investment of district funds.

This is a 12-month position with an 8-hour workday. Compensation is determined based on skills, relevant work experience, and education. The posted salary range reflects the first quartile through the midpoint of the salary range. The position also qualifies for a 14% tax-sheltered annuity (TSA); single and family health benefits are valued at approximately $35,000 annually and provided at no cost to employees. Relocation assistance of up to $6,000 is available.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in accounting, business, or public administration, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Five years of previous supervisory experience.
• Ten years of experience in school business administration or public accounting.
• Certified Public Accountant.
• School Business Official license or ability to obtain one.
• Extensive knowledge and practice in governmental accounting.
• Extensive knowledge of public governmental budgeting processes.
• Effective written and oral communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of payroll, budgeting, forecasting techniques, and preparation of a large organization budget.
• Extensive knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles for government entities and ability to apply them in preparing financial statements.
• Ability to prioritize and delegate tasks when appropriate.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, supervisory, and leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Excellent time management skills and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to attend work promptly and regularly.
• Ability to maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.
• Successfully pass a criminal background check and child and adult abuse registry check if offered the position.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate, in conjunction with the Superintendent, major financial initiatives of the district.
• Lead cross-functional teams implementing initiatives to improve district financial efficiency and support student outcomes.
• Streamline processes, enhance productivity, and optimize resource allocation through fiscal solutions.
• Coordinate external audit activities and serve on the Board’s audit committee.
• Coordinate insurance-related requirements with appropriate district personnel.
• Administer the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System for the district, direct its financial activities, and serve as liaison to its advisory committee.
• Direct preparation and implementation of the district’s financial budget presentation, interim financial statements, Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, and Certified Annual Report.
• Collaborate with schools and departments on financial and business matters.
• Support the Board, Superintendent, and colleagues in achieving district goals and objectives.
• Prepare reports and coordinate record keeping in accordance with district, state, and federal program requirements.
• Attend all Board meetings and serve as a resource to the Superintendent and Board.
• Serve as Board treasurer and oversee treasury management, including investment of district funds.
• Maintain professional learning and growth through professional organizations, seminars, coursework, and collaboration.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• 14% tax-sheltered annuity (TSA).
• Single and family health benefits valued at approximately $35,000 annually, provided at no cost to employees.
• Relocation assistance of up to $6,000.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive