Finance Operations Leader — Payroll, Purchasing & Systems

Austin Achieve Public Schools; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Austin Achieve Public Schools is seeking a Director of Finance Operations to lead payroll, purchasing, accounts payable, and financial systems for about 460 staff across campuses.

The role partners with the CFO and finance team to strengthen controls, drive process improvements, and ensure scalable operations as the district grows. Strong leadership and public school experience are valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; Master's preferred.
• 5–7+ years of progressive finance experience with payroll and accounts payable responsibilities.
• Prior leadership or people-management experience.
• Experience in Texas public charter schools or independent school districts preferred.
• TASBO certification or ability to obtain preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of payroll, purchasing, accounts payable, and financial systems.
• Build and develop a high-performing finance operations team.
• Partner with CFO and budget owners to enhance operations, controls, and scalability.
• Lead system enhancements and process automation across payroll and AP.
• Support audits and ensure GAAP-compliant financial records.

Skills

Payroll

Accounts payable

Leadership

Internal controls

Financial analysis

Vendor management

Systems thinking

Excel/Sheets

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Master's degree a plus

Tools

Skyward Qmlativ Business Suite

ERP systems

Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets

Job description

Austin Achieve Public Schools is seeking a Director of Finance Operations to lead payroll, purchasing, accounts payable, and financial systems for about 460 staff across campuses.

The role partners with the CFO and finance team to strengthen controls, drive process improvements, and ensure scalable operations as the district grows. Strong leadership and public school experience are valued.