Finance Director

Elkhart Christian Academy; Goshen (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Elkhart Christian Academy is seeking a Finance Director to provide strategic financial leadership, oversee budgeting, forecasting, accounting, and risk management, and align resources with the school’s mission.

The role supports the Superintendent, School Board, and Finance Committee, managing tuition systems and ensuring compliance with IRS rules and accreditation standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field; CPA, MBA, or equivalent preferred.
• 4+ years of senior-level financial management experience; nonprofit or education sector preferred.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting standards and financial reporting.
• Excellent analytical, organizational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records and oversee accounting operations, internal controls, and monthly financial reporting.
• Review monthly financial statements and provide analysis to school leadership and Superintendent.
• Manage cash flow, banking relationships, debt obligations, investment accounts, and tuition systems.
• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the school's mission and goals.
• Prepare multi-year forecasts, budgets, and cash-flow analyses.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting (CPA/MBA preferred)

Tools

QuickBooks

FACTS

BAIRD

Job description

The Finance Director provides strategic financial leadership to ensure the long-term stability and sustainability of Elkhart Christian Academy by overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and risk management. They serve as a trusted advisor to the Superintendent, School Board, and Finance Committee, aligning financial resources with the school’s mission and strategic priorities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records and oversee accounting operations, internal controls, and financial reporting monthly.
• Review monthly financial statements and provide analysis to school leadership and Superintendent.
• Manage cash flow, banking relationships, debt obligations, investment accounts, and tuition management systems (e.g., FACTS is tuition management system, BAIRD is investment account company, Quickbooks).
• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the school’s mission and long-term goals.
• Prepare multi-year financial forecasts, budgets, and cash-flow analyses.
• Budgeting & Operations
• Lead the annual budgeting process in collaboration with the Superintendent, Finance Committee, and department heads.
• Managed and supported the Indiana Choice Scholarship application process, including verifying eligibility documentation, and ensuring accurate and timely submission to the Department of Education.
• Monitor budget performance, identify variances, and recommend adjustments.
• Evaluate financial operations to increase efficiency, support growth, and optimize resource stewardship.
• Oversee tuition billing, collections, and financial aid programs, including SGO accounts and scholarship awards.
• Provide financial framework for tuition planning, scholarships, and enrollment initiatives.
• Support advancement and fundraising efforts by analyzing revenue opportunities.
• Oversee risk management policies, including insurance, general liability, and worker’s comp.
• Maintain employee handbook and contractual obligations to ensure compliance.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, IRS requirements, accreditation standards, and school policies; coordinate with external auditors during annual audits.
• Recommend policies and procedures to safeguard school assets and ensure sound fiscal practices.
• Prepare 1099 yearly as needed.

Board & Committee Engagement

• Serve as staff liaison to the Finance Committee and the School Board.
• Communication to superintendent for approval prior to board and finance committee.
• Prepare and present clear, concise financial updates, statements, and reports to Finance Committee and the School Board.
• Advise on strategic financial decisions and investment portfolio management.

Spiritual Qualifications

• A clear Christian testimony of salvation, a mature godly spirit, and a lifestyle of biblical integrity.
• Accept & support Elkhart Christian Academy's Statement of Faith, Vision, Mission, and Values.
• A deep commitment to, and personal understanding of, the principles of a Christian education.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field (CPA, MBA, or equivalent preferred).
• 4+ years of senior-level financial management experience; nonprofit or education experience strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting standards and financial reporting.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• High integrity, sound judgment, and a collaborative leadership style.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.