Director of Finance and Planning

Full-time - Director

Hartford, CT

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations

About the position

The Director of Finance and Planning, reporting to the Superintendent, ensures the district's financial resources are managed effectively to support academic achievement and strategic priorities. This position oversees all financial functions, including budgeting, accounting, purchasing, payroll, benefits, insurance, food services, and special projects, managing a $215+ million budget and guiding long-term financial strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop budget guidelines, coordinate the budget preparation process, and assist administrators in review and planning.
• Present and justify budget proposals to the Board of Education and Town Council, providing additional analyses as needed.
• Submit periodic financial statements to the Board of Education detailing budget appropriations.
• Supervise district accounting and reporting, ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Prepare financial reports and coordinate external audits, implementing recommendations promptly.
• Manage special revenues, state and federal funding, and school-based internal funds.
• Oversee the purchasing of supplies, equipment, and services in collaboration with the Town Purchasing Department.
• Manage contracts and ensure competitive bidding practices are followed.
• Supervise payroll operations, including tax reporting, benefits administration, and employee deductions.
• Provide fiscal data for negotiations and manage employee health insurance programs, the district's 403(b) plan, and attendance tracking procedures.
• Establish procedures for record-keeping, workflow efficiency, and compliance with audit/legal requirements.
• Oversee office services, including mail, telecommunications, and duplicating/printing operations.
• Administer the district's insurance programs (workers' compensation, liability, and property).
• Collaborate with the Town to manage the risk budget.
• Supervise the Food Services Director to ensure the effective operation of the school lunch and cafeteria programs.
• Act as a financial advisor to the Superintendent, participate in policy development, and represent the district in public and professional settings.
• Monitor industry trends and participate in relevant professional development opportunities.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Accounting, Business Management, or related field (MBA/CPA preferred).
• At least 10 years of experience in senior financial management, preferably in a school district or local government.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.
• Advanced proficiency in financial systems and Excel (pivot tables, data modeling).
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams and maintain cooperative relationships across departments.