Deputy Chief Financial Officer

Acero Schools - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Senior

Chicago, IL

About the position

The Deputy Chief Financial Officer (DCFO) at Acero Schools plays a pivotal role in supporting the Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFOO) in managing the financial planning, organization, control, and analysis of the financial services of the organization. This position is essential for ensuring that Acero Schools meets its programmatic, strategic, and financial goals through effective resource allocation. The DCFO will collaborate closely with the CFOO, the Finance Committee, and key leadership to ensure that proper accounting methods are adhered to, in compliance with federal, state, and local financial regulations. In this role, the DCFO will oversee and manage all accounting and financial functions, including the development and implementation of policies and systems for monitoring financial information, creating and managing budgets, and preparing financial statements. The DCFO will also be responsible for long-term and strategic financial planning to ensure the financial stability of Acero Schools. This includes the preparation of monthly financial statement packages, which involves creating and posting journal entries, recording transactions in the general ledger, and conducting in-depth reviews of financial reports such as budget variance reporting and balance sheet reconciliations. The DCFO will supervise all finance personnel, including those in Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Payroll/Benefits Accounting, and will work collaboratively with school Principals, Directors, and Chiefs to ensure effective financial operations across departments. Additionally, the DCFO will lead the annual audit process, ensuring that all documentation is prepared and overseen effectively. The role also includes managing cash across multiple bank accounts and ensuring timely accounting of funds received. The DCFO will be expected to perform other duties and special projects as assigned, contributing to the overall success of Acero Schools.

Responsibilities

• Assist the CFOO in managing financial planning and analysis.
• Oversee all accounting and financial functions, including policies and systems for monitoring financial information.
• Create and manage budgets and prepare financial statements.
• Perform long-term and strategic financial planning to ensure financial stability.
• Prepare monthly financial statement packages, including journal entries and general ledger transactions.
• Supervise finance personnel in Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Payroll/Benefits Accounting.
• Collaborate with school Principals and Directors on financial operations and policies.
• Lead the annual audit process, including preparation and oversight of documentation.
• Manage cash across multiple bank accounts and ensure timely accounting of funds received.
• Evaluate current billing, accounting, and purchasing practices for continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field; CPA license preferred.
• At least 5 years of experience in Education Finance, with experience managing a team focused on client/customer service.
• Considerable knowledge of accounting principles and laws governing public procurement.
• Previous experience in education and/or nonprofit sectors preferred.
• Proven ability to implement new processes and systems with limited direction.
• Strong collaborative skills to work with CFOO and executive leadership team.
• Excellent written, oral communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated sound judgment and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data analysis capabilities.
• Integrity and a high sense of personal and professional ethics.
• Comprehensive understanding of GAAP standards and FASB regulations.
• Authorization to work in the United States.