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Director of Finance
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LEAD Public Schools
Brentwood, TN (In Person)
Full-Time
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Job Description
Director of FinanceReports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)Position SummaryThe Director of Finance serves as the operational leader of the finance department and a strategic partner to the Chief Financial Officer. This role is responsible for leading the day-to-day finance function while strengthening financial oversight, reporting, accounting operations, audit readiness, financial planning, and department effectiveness across the organization.
The Director of Finance will help evolve the finance department from a reactive transactional function into a more proactive, analytical, and strategically aligned partner to organizational leadership. While this role maintains accountability for the integrity and effectiveness of finance operations, much of the day-to-day transactional execution is expected to occur through the broader finance team.
Success in this role requires strong people leadership, analytical capability, operational thinking, and the ability to build structure and accountability within a fast-moving and evolving environment. The ideal candidate is highly proficient in Excel and financial modeling, comfortable leading through others, and capable of balancing strategic thinking with strong execution.
This role offers meaningful exposure to executive leadership, organizational strategy, board reporting, and cross-functional leadership.
Role Balance50% People Leadership30% Accounting Oversight20% Financial Modeling & Strategic Financial PlanningKey ResponsibilitiesFinance Leadership & Department ManagementLead the day-to-day operations of the finance department across accounting, reporting, payroll oversight, financial planning, and finance administrationDirectly manage and develop finance team membersEstablish clear ownership structures, accountability systems, and department workflows across the finance teamBuild a culture of responsiveness, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvementCoach team members toward stronger execution, critical thinking, and professional growthIncrease departmental consistency, efficiency, and effectivenessHelp create structure and clarity within evolving environmentsFinancial Planning, Analysis & Strategic SupportLead budget-to-actual variance reporting and ongoing financial analysisBuild and maintain financial models, forecasting tools, and scenario analysesSupport annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning processesSupport oversight of grant and public funding streams, including forecasting, financial planning, compliance coordination, and alignment between funding requirements and organizational prioritiesSupport executive leadership and board-level financial reportingTranslate financial information into clear, actionable insights for organizational leadersSupport strategic decision-making through financial analysis and business insightHelp leaders evaluate organizational and financial tradeoffsPartner with organizational leaders to evaluate financial impacts, operational priorities, resource allocation decisions, and strategic initiativesIdentify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities proactivelyImprove visibility into financial performance across departments and schoolsSupport strategic initiatives and cross-functional problem-solvingAccounting Oversight & Financial OperationsProvide leadership oversight of monthly close and financial reporting processes to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and reliabilityEnsure balance sheet integrity through strong reconciliation oversight and review processesProvide oversight and quality assurance across financial reporting, close processes, reconciliations, and key accounting deliverables to ensure accuracy, consistency, and reliabilityStrengthen accounting controls, financial procedures, and reporting consistencyEnsure audit readiness throughout the year, not solely during audit seasonOversee organizational audit readiness, external auditor coordination, audit planning, and audit follow-through efforts while ensuring the finance team maintains timely and accurate supporting documentation throughout the yearPartner with the finance team to improve reporting accuracy, workflow efficiency, and department effectivenessSupport compliance with applicable accounting standards, grant requirements, and organizational policiesSystems Improvement & Cross-Functional PartnershipImprove finance systems, reporting tools, workflows, and financial visibilitySupport the development of finance processes that strengthen organizational effectiveness and long-term scalabilityHelp establish a scalable finance infrastructure capable of supporting continued organizational growth, operational complexity, and evolving business needsPartner cross-functionally with school leaders and organizational departments to support planning, decision-making, and financial managementServe as a collaborative and solutions-oriented partner across the organizationIdentify inefficiencies and proactively implement process improvementsSupport a finance culture that balances strong controls with practicality, responsiveness, and service-minded partnershipLeadership CompetenciesManaging Ambiguity Operates effectively in uncertain or evolving environments, makes sound decisions without complete information, remains calm under pressure, and navigates complex challenges with confidence and adaptability.
Business Insight Applies strong business and industry knowledge to advance organizational goals, understands how operational and financial decisions impact outcomes, and uses market and organizational trends to guide strategic action.
Talent Development & Team Leadership Builds high-performing teams by developing others through coaching, feedback, stretch opportunities, and accountability while aligning employee growth with organizational priorities.
Interpersonal Savvy & Relationship Building Builds trust and strong working relationships across diverse groups and leadership levels through diplomacy, collaboration, self-awareness, and effective communication.
Nimble Learning & Innovation Learns quickly in new or unfamiliar situations, embraces experimentation and change, encourages innovation, and uses both successes and setbacks as opportunities for growth and continuous improvement.
Strategic Mindset Anticipates future challenges and opportunities, connects long-term vision to actionable strategies, and develops forward-thinking solutions that support sustainable organizational success.
Directing Work & Driving Results Provides clear direction, establishes accountability, delegates effectively, monitors progress, removes obstacles, and maintains a strong focus on achieving measurable results and organizational priorities.
Who Thrives in This RolePeople who are successful in this role typically:enjoy building structure within evolving environmentsmove quickly while maintaining strong judgment and attention to detailbalance strategic thinking with operational executionproactively solve problems without waiting for directioncommunicate directly, collaboratively, and professionallytake ownership rather than escalating unnecessarilyremain adaptable as priorities evolveare energized by improving operations, developing people, and strengthening systemsare comfortable operating in organizations that are continuing to grow and evolveThis role is likely not the right fit for individuals who prefer highly predictable environments, require constant direction, avoid accountability conversations, or are seeking narrowly defined transactional accounting responsibilities.
QualificationsBachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field5+ years of progressive experience leading finance operations, financial planning, accounting oversight, or operational finance functions, including experience managing people, workflows, and cross-functional financial processesExperience managing and developing professional staffStrong understanding of accounting operations, financial reporting, financial analysis, and internal controlsAdvanced Excel proficiency required, including:
Financial modelingForecastingScenario analysisReporting developmentComplex formulas and data analysisStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving capabilitiesExperience leading or supporting annual auditsAbility to balance strategic thinking with hands-on executionStrong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneouslyExcellent written and verbal communication skillsDemonstrated ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, evolving environmentsPreferred ExperienceExperience within K12 education, charter schools, nonprofit organizations, or other mission-driven organizationsExperience supporting budgeting and long-range financial planning processesExperience improving finance systems, workflows, and department infrastructureExperience partnering with executive leadership teams and presenting financial information to leadership or boardsCPA, CMA, MBA, or other relevant professional certification preferred but not requiredExperience working within organizations undergoing growth, operational change, or transformationWork Environment & Pace ExpectationsThis is a collaborative, mission-driven, and fast-moving environment where priorities frequently shift and leaders are expected to balance strategic thinking with execution.
Success in this role requires adaptability, initiative, sound judgment, strong communication, and comfort operating within evolving environments where systems and processes continue to mature.
This role is best suited for someone who:builds structure rather than waiting for itoperates with ownership and urgencyremains calm and solutions-oriented during changecan effectively prioritize competing demandsthrives in collaborative, high-accountability environmentsis energized by improving operations, developing people, and strengthening systemsHybrid/Remote ExpectationsThis role follows a hybrid work structure with the opportunity to work remotely up to two days per week. Regular in-person presence is important due to the collaborative and leadership-oriented nature of the role. Physical RequirementsAbility to perform the essential responsibilities of the role in both office and school-based environments, including prolonged computer use and regular in-person communication and collaboration. BenefitsComprehensive benefits package available, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other organizational benefits.
Equal Opportunity StatementLEAD Public Schools is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and supported. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
LEAD Public Schools Non-Discrimination PolicyLEAD Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion,ancestry, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medicalcondition, national origin, age, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information,or veteran status in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs and activities.
LEAD Public Schools does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices andcomplies with applicable federal and state regulations, including those implementing TitleIX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Title VI, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of1973 and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 1990.
The Director of Finance will help evolve the finance department from a reactive transactional function into a more proactive, analytical, and strategically aligned partner to organizational leadership. While this role maintains accountability for the integrity and effectiveness of finance operations, much of the day-to-day transactional execution is expected to occur through the broader finance team.
Success in this role requires strong people leadership, analytical capability, operational thinking, and the ability to build structure and accountability within a fast-moving and evolving environment. The ideal candidate is highly proficient in Excel and financial modeling, comfortable leading through others, and capable of balancing strategic thinking with strong execution.
This role offers meaningful exposure to executive leadership, organizational strategy, board reporting, and cross-functional leadership.
Role Balance50% People Leadership30% Accounting Oversight20% Financial Modeling & Strategic Financial PlanningKey ResponsibilitiesFinance Leadership & Department ManagementLead the day-to-day operations of the finance department across accounting, reporting, payroll oversight, financial planning, and finance administrationDirectly manage and develop finance team membersEstablish clear ownership structures, accountability systems, and department workflows across the finance teamBuild a culture of responsiveness, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvementCoach team members toward stronger execution, critical thinking, and professional growthIncrease departmental consistency, efficiency, and effectivenessHelp create structure and clarity within evolving environmentsFinancial Planning, Analysis & Strategic SupportLead budget-to-actual variance reporting and ongoing financial analysisBuild and maintain financial models, forecasting tools, and scenario analysesSupport annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning processesSupport oversight of grant and public funding streams, including forecasting, financial planning, compliance coordination, and alignment between funding requirements and organizational prioritiesSupport executive leadership and board-level financial reportingTranslate financial information into clear, actionable insights for organizational leadersSupport strategic decision-making through financial analysis and business insightHelp leaders evaluate organizational and financial tradeoffsPartner with organizational leaders to evaluate financial impacts, operational priorities, resource allocation decisions, and strategic initiativesIdentify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities proactivelyImprove visibility into financial performance across departments and schoolsSupport strategic initiatives and cross-functional problem-solvingAccounting Oversight & Financial OperationsProvide leadership oversight of monthly close and financial reporting processes to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and reliabilityEnsure balance sheet integrity through strong reconciliation oversight and review processesProvide oversight and quality assurance across financial reporting, close processes, reconciliations, and key accounting deliverables to ensure accuracy, consistency, and reliabilityStrengthen accounting controls, financial procedures, and reporting consistencyEnsure audit readiness throughout the year, not solely during audit seasonOversee organizational audit readiness, external auditor coordination, audit planning, and audit follow-through efforts while ensuring the finance team maintains timely and accurate supporting documentation throughout the yearPartner with the finance team to improve reporting accuracy, workflow efficiency, and department effectivenessSupport compliance with applicable accounting standards, grant requirements, and organizational policiesSystems Improvement & Cross-Functional PartnershipImprove finance systems, reporting tools, workflows, and financial visibilitySupport the development of finance processes that strengthen organizational effectiveness and long-term scalabilityHelp establish a scalable finance infrastructure capable of supporting continued organizational growth, operational complexity, and evolving business needsPartner cross-functionally with school leaders and organizational departments to support planning, decision-making, and financial managementServe as a collaborative and solutions-oriented partner across the organizationIdentify inefficiencies and proactively implement process improvementsSupport a finance culture that balances strong controls with practicality, responsiveness, and service-minded partnershipLeadership CompetenciesManaging Ambiguity Operates effectively in uncertain or evolving environments, makes sound decisions without complete information, remains calm under pressure, and navigates complex challenges with confidence and adaptability.
Business Insight Applies strong business and industry knowledge to advance organizational goals, understands how operational and financial decisions impact outcomes, and uses market and organizational trends to guide strategic action.
Talent Development & Team Leadership Builds high-performing teams by developing others through coaching, feedback, stretch opportunities, and accountability while aligning employee growth with organizational priorities.
Interpersonal Savvy & Relationship Building Builds trust and strong working relationships across diverse groups and leadership levels through diplomacy, collaboration, self-awareness, and effective communication.
Nimble Learning & Innovation Learns quickly in new or unfamiliar situations, embraces experimentation and change, encourages innovation, and uses both successes and setbacks as opportunities for growth and continuous improvement.
Strategic Mindset Anticipates future challenges and opportunities, connects long-term vision to actionable strategies, and develops forward-thinking solutions that support sustainable organizational success.
Directing Work & Driving Results Provides clear direction, establishes accountability, delegates effectively, monitors progress, removes obstacles, and maintains a strong focus on achieving measurable results and organizational priorities.
Who Thrives in This RolePeople who are successful in this role typically:enjoy building structure within evolving environmentsmove quickly while maintaining strong judgment and attention to detailbalance strategic thinking with operational executionproactively solve problems without waiting for directioncommunicate directly, collaboratively, and professionallytake ownership rather than escalating unnecessarilyremain adaptable as priorities evolveare energized by improving operations, developing people, and strengthening systemsare comfortable operating in organizations that are continuing to grow and evolveThis role is likely not the right fit for individuals who prefer highly predictable environments, require constant direction, avoid accountability conversations, or are seeking narrowly defined transactional accounting responsibilities.
QualificationsBachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field5+ years of progressive experience leading finance operations, financial planning, accounting oversight, or operational finance functions, including experience managing people, workflows, and cross-functional financial processesExperience managing and developing professional staffStrong understanding of accounting operations, financial reporting, financial analysis, and internal controlsAdvanced Excel proficiency required, including:
Financial modelingForecastingScenario analysisReporting developmentComplex formulas and data analysisStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving capabilitiesExperience leading or supporting annual auditsAbility to balance strategic thinking with hands-on executionStrong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneouslyExcellent written and verbal communication skillsDemonstrated ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, evolving environmentsPreferred ExperienceExperience within K12 education, charter schools, nonprofit organizations, or other mission-driven organizationsExperience supporting budgeting and long-range financial planning processesExperience improving finance systems, workflows, and department infrastructureExperience partnering with executive leadership teams and presenting financial information to leadership or boardsCPA, CMA, MBA, or other relevant professional certification preferred but not requiredExperience working within organizations undergoing growth, operational change, or transformationWork Environment & Pace ExpectationsThis is a collaborative, mission-driven, and fast-moving environment where priorities frequently shift and leaders are expected to balance strategic thinking with execution.
Success in this role requires adaptability, initiative, sound judgment, strong communication, and comfort operating within evolving environments where systems and processes continue to mature.
This role is best suited for someone who:builds structure rather than waiting for itoperates with ownership and urgencyremains calm and solutions-oriented during changecan effectively prioritize competing demandsthrives in collaborative, high-accountability environmentsis energized by improving operations, developing people, and strengthening systemsHybrid/Remote ExpectationsThis role follows a hybrid work structure with the opportunity to work remotely up to two days per week. Regular in-person presence is important due to the collaborative and leadership-oriented nature of the role. Physical RequirementsAbility to perform the essential responsibilities of the role in both office and school-based environments, including prolonged computer use and regular in-person communication and collaboration. BenefitsComprehensive benefits package available, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other organizational benefits.
Equal Opportunity StatementLEAD Public Schools is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and supported. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
LEAD Public Schools Non-Discrimination PolicyLEAD Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion,ancestry, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medicalcondition, national origin, age, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information,or veteran status in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs and activities.
LEAD Public Schools does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices andcomplies with applicable federal and state regulations, including those implementing TitleIX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Title VI, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of1973 and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 1990.