Chief Financial Officer, Office of Financial Management (C123-2425)

$170,000 - $190,000/Yr

Hartford Public Schools - Hartford, CT

Full-time - Executive

Hartford, CT

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Hartford Public Schools is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all financial operations within the district. The CFO ensures fiscal stability, promotes financial transparency, and drives strategic financial planning to support the district's educational mission and manage a budget exceeding $450 million. This position plays a crucial role in achieving the district's strategic objectives and fostering a culture of equity and organizational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Advise and counsel the Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent regarding district finances.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of key instructional activities and establish goals to maximize performance of non-instructional functions.
• Develop and implement short- and long-term budget plans based on the district's strategic objectives.
• Communicate effectively with governing bodies, policy makers, and other stakeholders as requested by the Superintendent.
• Develop and maintain positive working relations with local, state, and federal government and community partners.
• Eliminate workflow bottlenecks and streamline processes by serving as a point person between leadership and departments.
• Develop a customer-based approach to the district's financial operations.
• Serve as a strategic leader and thought partner for the Superintendent and Cabinet.
• Support the Superintendent in driving district accountability and responsiveness to community needs.
• Create a culture of engagement with principals and administrators.
• Provide guidance and direction to managers for their professional development.
• Ensure district compliance with local, state, and federal policies and regulations.
• Oversee the preparation and distribution of statistical data for reports.
• Create presentations as required by the Superintendent.
• Implement district policies and procedures throughout the school system.
• Lead the annual budget process with stakeholder engagement.
• Direct fund management, position management, accounts receivable, and payroll.
• Develop long-range financial forecasts of revenues and expenditures.
• Participate in collective bargaining and provide cost estimates for proposals.
• Develop procedures for efficient management and reporting of expenditures.
• Approve payments, requisitions, and budgetary transfers as needed.
• Identify funding sources for unbudgeted items with the Director of Budget and Grants Management.
• Assist in producing the annual Educational Financial System and Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.
• Testify before various boards and committees on financial matters as needed.
• Negotiate contracts that enhance the educational environment cost-effectively.
• Support the financial goals of the District and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
• Assist principals and leaders in implementing and monitoring budget expenditures.
• Review budget estimates for grant applications and initiatives.
• Provide regular training on financial management systems and processes.
• Review potential legislative changes in education funding.
• Partner with Office of Talent Management in selecting and overseeing benefit plans.
• Work cooperatively with the City of Hartford's Department of Finance.
• Perform other duties as directed by the Superintendent or Deputy Superintendent.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, public administration, education, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Over 10 years of relevant work experience in business, finance, or district management.
• At least 5 years of senior level experience working with superintendents or executive leaders.
• Evidence of successful experience leading major change management efforts in public schools or similar organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee large and complex budgets.
• Experience with state and/or federal grants management.
• Familiarity with MUNIS accounting software is an advantage.
• Experience in urban school districts or public institutions is preferred.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and strong judgment.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills.
• Organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-up.

Nice-to-haves

• Connecticut certification in School Business Administrator (085) or ability to acquire it is preferred.
• Experience with bargaining unit contract administration and negotiation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Career growth opportunities
• Loan forgiveness
• Tuition reimbursement
• Rich health care plan (including dental & vision)
• Life insurance