Director of Finance - GCPS

Position Type:
Administration/Director of Finance

Date Posted:
2/13/2025

Location:
Garrett Cnty Board of Ed, Central Office SouthPosition Title: Director of Finance
FTE: Full-time
Status: Exempt (Confidential, Non-Bargaining Unit)
Terms: 12 months, 8 hours per day (may vary depending on system needs)
Salary: $100,278 - $135,458 (commensurate with experience)
Supervisor: Superintendent of Schools
Start Date: No later than July 1, 2025
Application Deadline: Open until filled; priority given to applications received by February 28, 2025

Position Summary: The Director of Finance reports directly to the Superintendent of Schools. This position manages, plans, and directs all financial operations and services within the school system. The Director advises both the Superintendent and the Board of Education on budget-related matters while ensuring operational efficiency and maintaining public trust.

Qualifications:

• Education: A Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. Preference will be given to candidates with a CPA, MPA, or MBA. Additionally, candidates with a CPA in Maryland will receive an extra $5,000.
• Experience: At least five years of successful administrative and/or supervisory experience in financial management; experience in public sector finance and budgeting preferred.
• Skills:
  • Strong long-term planning and budgeting abilities.
  • Experience in payroll and accounts payable administration.
  • Proven leadership qualities.
  • Knowledge of computer applications, information technology, analysis, and automated accounting systems.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (essential).
  • Familiarity with Tyler Munis Software (preferred).
  • Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, both oral and written.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all financial operations for the school system, including budgeting, strategic planning, forecasting, reporting, compliance, accounts payable, and payroll.
• Serve as the Budget Officer for all funds managed by the Board of Education of Garrett County, including an annual budget of $105 million. This includes managing Food and Nutrition Services, School Construction, and School Activity accounts.
• Develop, prepare, and present financial reports to internal and external stakeholders, including the Maryland State Department of Education, Maryland Department of Legislative Services, and the Accountability and Implementation Board.
• Provide financial reports, analysis, and projections to the Board, Superintendent, Chief Academic Officer, Directors, and Principals to support operations.
• Serve as a liaison during audit engagements and monitoring visits to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Stay up-to-date with all rules, regulations, policies, and guidelines for governmental accounting, restricted revenue sources, labor relations, and Maryland school system laws (including the Blueprint for Maryland's Future).
• Develop and revise policies for school system financial and support operations.
• Collaborate with the Human Resources Director to complete contract negotiations and provide analysis and projections for salary and benefits expenses.
• Represent GCPS with state and local agencies, lawmakers, and community influencers to advocate for the school system's interests.
• Contribute to the development of capital and deferred maintenance plans for GCPS facilities, ensuring financial resources are allocated appropriately.
• Serve as a liaison for the MABE Worker's Compensation Pool, MABE Insurance Trust, and Garrett County Employees Health Care Plan.
• Supervise the Finance Department staff, including the Staff Accountant, Finance Coordinator, Restricted Funds Manager, and Clerks.
• Display strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills necessary to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various groups served by the school district, the School Board, and federal/state/county officials.
• Maintain flexibility to work beyond standard hours as needed including attending Board of Education meetings.

Total Compensation Benefits:
Comprehensive benefits include healthcare (medical, dental, vision), life insurance, and participation in the Maryland Retirement and Pension Plan, with optional 403(b) contributions. Employees receive paid sick leave, personal days, vacation, and access to wellness programs and employee assistance resources.

Questions:
If you have questions and require assistance accessing or completing the online application, contact the Office of Human Resources and Employee Relations at 301-334-8904.

Accommodation Requests:
If you are contacted for an interview, please notify the Office of Human Resources and Employee Relations of any reasonable disability-related accommodation requests.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
The Garrett County Board of Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employees or applicants because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any federal, or state or local protected class. Inquiries may be directed to the Office of Human Resources and Employee Relations at 301-334-8904.