Chief Financial Operation Officer (CFOO)

NBOA: Business Leadership for Independent Schools; Seaside (CA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Chartwell School is seeking a Chief Financial Operation Officer (CFOO) to drive financial sustainability and operational effectiveness. This senior leader will work closely with the Head of School and Board to oversee finances, operations, and compliance, ensuring a disciplined approach to decision-making.

The ideal candidate should possess 7-15 years of senior financial leadership experience, a Bachelor’s in Finance or related field, and familiarity with nonprofit education sectors. This is a full-time position located in Seaside, California.

Qualifications

• 7–15+ years of senior financial leadership experience.
• Demonstrated success in financial planning, business operations, and Board partnership.
• Independent school experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead a 3–5 year financial sustainability plan.
• Serve as primary financial liaison to the Board and committees.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and financial reporting.

Skills

Financial strategy development

Financial reporting and analysis

Team leadership

Risk management

Budgeting and forecasting

Education

Bachelor’s in Finance, Accounting, or related field

MBA/CPA preferred

Job description

Chief Financial Operation Officer (CFOO)

Chartwell School

Posted: 22-May-26 | Location: Seaside, California | Type: Full Time | Salary: $175,000-$225,000

Job Summary

Chartwell School is in search of a senior leader and strategic partner to the Head of School and Board, responsible for the school’s financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, and long-term stability. This role leads the school’s financial stabilization efforts, including identifying structural versus temporary deficits, aligning resources to mission priorities, and implementing a multi-year path to sustainability. The CFOO oversees finance, operations, facilities, technology, human resources, and risk management, ensuring disciplined, transparent, and data-informed decision-making across the organization.

Institutional Context

Chartwell School is a nonprofit nonpublic school serving students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences. The school is in a period of leadership transition and continued financial stabilization. Core operational teams are in place; the CFOO provides strategic oversight, integration, and accountability across functions.

Reports & Partners

• Reports to: Head of School
• Partners: Board of Trustees, Finance & Audit Committees
• Oversees: Finance, HR, Facilities, IT, and Operations

Core Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Management

• Lead a 3–5 year financial sustainability plan
• Diagnose and address structural financial drivers
• Develop scenario-based models (enrollment, tuition, staffing, fundraising)
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and financial reporting
• Ensure strong internal controls and financial discipline

Board Partnership & Governance

• Serve as primary financial liaison to the Board and committees
• Deliver clear, actionable financial reporting and analysis
• Support scenario planning, risk assessment, and decision-making
• Manage key financial cycles (tuition-setting, budget approval)

Operations & Infrastructure

• Oversee Facilities, IT, and operational systems
• Lead cross-functional improvements to increase efficiency and cost control
• Provide oversight of capital projects, deferred maintenance, and vendors
• Ensure technology and data systems support institutional needs

Human Resources Oversight

• Provide executive oversight of HR strategy and compliance
• Support HR leadership in employee relations and performance systems

Compliance, Risk & Stewardship

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, nonprofit regulations, and accreditation requirements
• Lead audit, 990/5500 filings, and financial reporting integrity
• Oversee risk management, insurance, and fiduciary responsibilities (including 403(b))

Advancement & Revenue Alignment

• Partner with Admissions and Advancement on enrollment modeling and financial aid strategy
• Align fundraising and restricted funds with financial priorities
• Support development of diversified revenue streams

Leadership & Culture

• Build and lead a high-performing finance and operations team
• Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and financial discipline

Year One Priorities

• Establish accurate, timely financial reporting and cash flow visibility
• Conduct operational assessment (HR, IT, Facilities) to identify risks and gaps
• Strengthen systems, controls, and processes

Leadership Profile

• Strategic, analytical, and solutions-oriented
• Comfortable navigating complex financial models with clarity and candor
• Strong communicator with both financial and non-financial stakeholders
• Systems thinker with the ability to translate strategy into execution

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Finance, Accounting, or related field (MBA/CPA preferred)
• 7–15+ years of senior financial leadership experience
• Independent school experience preferred
• Demonstrated success in financial planning, business operations, and Board partnership

For more information about Chartwell School, visit our website.