Accounting Manager

Job Title: Accounting Manager

School: The Branch School

Location: Houston, Texas (On-Site)

Employment Type: Full-Time (Exempt Status)

Reports To: Head of School

Start Date: January 21, 2025

Job Overview:

At Branch, we believe in the power of loving to learn, learning to lead, and leading with love. These guiding principles shape our community and mission. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Accounting Manager to join our team, who not only has the expertise in Business, but also embodies these values.

As a school that serves Pre-K, elementary, and middle school students, we encourage a love of learning, foster leadership skills, and promote leading with compassion and integrity. The Accounting Manager will oversee the school’s financial operations, compliance, and risk management, while also contributing to long-term financial planning and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Planning & Budgeting 

·        Develop and manage the school’s annual budget in collaboration with the Head of School and the Board of Trustees.

·        Provide strategic financial insights and advice to ensure alignment with the school’s mission, goals, and priorities.

·        Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying and addressing budget variances in a timely manner.

·        Lead the annual financial forecasting process, ensuring appropriate projections for revenue and expenditures.

2.Financial Management and Accounting 

·        Oversee all accounting functions, including the preparation of financial statements, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and tax compliance.

·        Ensure proper financial controls and accounting practices are in place to protect school assets and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

·        Lead the annual audit process, working closely with external auditors to ensure timely and accurate reporting.

·        Oversee the management of cash flow, investments, and debt, including ensuring funds are available for operating expenses, capital improvements, and other financial obligations.

·        Coordinate and facilitate financial aid discussions to assist in making final decisions on this matter, while overseeing the financial aid process from start to finish.

3, Financial Reporting and Analysis 

·        Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to the Head of School and Board of Trustees.

·        Provide analysis of financial trends, helping to guide decision-making and long-term planning.

·        Ensure clear communication of financial results to key stakeholders, including parents, donors, and staff.

4. Strategic Financial Planning and Risk Management

·        Provide strategic financial guidance for the school’s long-term growth, including capital planning, facility improvements, and fundraising efforts.

·        Manage risk, including oversight of insurance policies, contracts, and financial safeguards.

·        Evaluate potential new revenue streams, financial aid programs, or cost-saving initiatives to enhance financial sustainability.

5.Compliance and Governance

·        Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including tax-exempt status, financial aid rules, and other school-specific policies.

·        Work closely with the Head of School and Board to implement financial policies and ensure alignment with the school's mission and strategic plan.

·        Stay updated on industry best practices, regulatory changes, and emerging financial trends in education.

6. Supervision and Team Leadership

·        Supervise the finance and business office staff.

·        Foster a collaborative, team-oriented environment within the finance office.

·        Provide professional development and growth opportunities for staff as needed.

·        All other duties assigned

As a small campus, we pride ourselves on fostering a close-knit community were teamwork is at the heart of everything we do. While every employee has a defined role, we value flexibility and a willingness to lend a hand where needed. Whether it’s helping with events, supporting a colleague, or stepping in during busy times, our team works together to ensure the success of our students and school.

Qualifications: 

·        Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field; CPA or MS Accountancy preferred.

·        Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in financial management, with at least 2 years in a leadership role, ideally within an educational institution or nonprofit setting.

·        Strong knowledge of accounting principles, budgeting, financial reporting, and auditing.

·        Demonstrated experience in financial strategy, forecasting, and long-term planning.

·        Ability to interpret and explain financial data to non-financial stakeholders.

·        Familiarity with private school financial operations and regulations is a plus.

Skills: 

·        Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

·        Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including parents, staff, and board members.

·        Intermediate to Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, vlookup, and data validation).

·        Proficiency in financial software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage 50, or similar systems).

·        High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

·        Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive financial information with integrity.

Work Environment: 

·        The Accounting Manager will be based on campus and must be available for school events, board meetings, and parent interactions as required.

·        Occasional evening or weekend hours may be necessary to accommodate board meetings, audits, or special events.

Physical Demands:

·        Position sometimes requires physical effort. Example: Setup of equipment for events. Position sometimes involves travel to meetings with individuals/organizations.

Salary and Benefits:

·   Salary Range-$70,000-$90,000

The Branch School offers a generous benefits package including:

·        Medical

·        Health Savings Account (HSA)

·        Dental

·        Vision

·        Life/AD&D

·        Supplemental Insurance

·        401K plan with match

·        PTO and Vacation

How to Apply:

·        A cover letter explaining your interest in the position.

·        An updated resume

·        Contact information for three professional references.

Please send cover letter, resume and references to Head of School, Stephen Judice at  stephen.judice@thebranchschool.org.

Non-Discrimination Statement:

• The Branch School is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.