Strategic CFO for Independent School

Carney, Sandoe & Associates; New York (NY); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Carney Sandoe & Associates seeks a strategic Chief Financial Officer for an independent school in Brooklyn, NY. The CFO will partner with the Head of School and Board to steward resources and shape long-term financial strategy.

Responsibilities include leading annual budgeting, multi-year forecasting, risk management, audits, and compliance, plus overseeing contracts, vendors, and technology and facilities operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field.
• MBA, CPA, or other advanced credential strongly preferred.
• Significant progressive leadership experience at the executive or senior level.
• Experience in an independent school, nonprofit, educational institution, or mission-driven organization is preferred.
• Strong analytical, communication, and strategic-thinking abilities.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the school’s principal financial strategist and trusted advisor to leadership and board.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive financial strategy aligned with mission and enrollment.
• Lead annual operating budget process and multi-year forecasts.
• Oversee audits, tax filings, regulatory requirements, and financial compliance.
• Review major contracts, vendor relationships, and capital expenditures.
• Manage cash flow, reserves, debt, and endowment considerations.
• Partner with leadership to evaluate operational effectiveness and risk.
• Monitor financial performance indicators and provide recommendations.
• Maintain relationships with auditors, attorneys, lenders, and other professionals.
• Advise on tuition strategy, staffing, facilities, and technology.
• Champion inclusion, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Skills

Financial leadership

Strategic planning

Budgeting

Forecasting

Board relations

Contract negotiation

Communication

Risk management

Leadership

Operational finance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting/finance/business

MBA or CPA

Job description

Carney Sandoe & Associates seeks a strategic Chief Financial Officer for an independent school in Brooklyn, NY. The CFO will partner with the Head of School and Board to steward resources and shape long-term financial strategy.

Responsibilities include leading annual budgeting, multi-year forecasting, risk management, audits, and compliance, plus overseeing contracts, vendors, and technology and facilities operations.