Director of Financial Services

Branford Public Schools•Branford, CT

2d•$128,000 - $139,000

About The Position

The Director of Financial Services is a senior finance leader within Branford Public Schools, responsible for directing and strengthening the District's financial business functions. This role provides oversight of finance, accounts payable, grants management, and purchasing. The Director serves as the primary liaison to the Town Finance Department for day-to-day financial operations and the management of the shared financial software system, ensuring alignment and strong internal controls across entities. The Director leads a dedicated and collaborative team that includes an Accounts Payable Coordinator, a Financial Analyst, and a shared Executive Assistant, with additional specialized services supported through external partners.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of accounting principles, practices, budgeting, and financial reporting
Understanding of federal, state, and local finance laws and regulations
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access) and industry-specific software programs
Excellent presentation skills, capable of clearly and concisely presenting financial information to governing bodies and the public
Ability to analyze costs, budgets, and other financial data, and to prepare comprehensive financial reports
Skilled in implementing and enforcing financial policies and procedures
Strong research and report writing abilities
Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
Demonstrated public speaking skills for effective communication in various forums
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business or Public Administration, or related field and minimum of 5 years of related experience
085 School Business Administrator certification required, or eligibility to obtain within six months of hire

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred
Demonstrated experience managing Connecticut school finances preferred but not required; accounting experience preferred
Prefer experience with MUNIS, EFS, CSDE financial regulations, and school lunch fund management
Bilingual English/Spanish candidates encouraged to apply

Responsibilities

Support the Chief Operating officer with the development and management of the annual budget
Conduct financial planning, forecasting, and analysis to support strategic decision-making
Ensure all funds are properly reconciled and accounted for, maintaining accurate records of all financial transactions
Lead the coordination and preparation for the District's annual audits and required financial reporting
Oversee centralized financial management of student activities funds, ensuring proper accounting, reconciliation, and compliance with district policies and regulations.
Provide guidance and support to school administrators and staff on managing and reporting student activities funds effectively
Manage the financial aspects of grants, including budgeting, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring compliance with grant requirements and regulations, along with a collaborative team of grant managers
Oversee the financial management of the district's food service fund and food service management company, including budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and reporting
Supervise the accounts payable function and implements robust internal controls to ensure compliance with district policies and procedures
Ensure accounts payable coordinates with vendors and resolve any payment disputes or discrepancies when escalated
Oversee the district-wide purchasing function and ensure financial activity complies with procurement policy and procedures
Coordinates the public bidding process for the district
With the COO, negotiate contracts and agreements