George Walton Academy challenges students to excel in academics, athletics and the arts and to build character, leadership and curiosity. GWA is an independent, Pre-K-12, college-preparatory school located on 62 beautiful acres in Monroe, Georgia, less than one hour from the state capital of Atlanta.
GWA seeks an experienced business manager to lead its business and operations departments. The ideal candidate will have experience in a K-12 education setting. The Business Manager is a key member of the senior team and provides direction and oversight of forecasting and financial planning, budgeting, financial reporting, food service, human resources, purchasing, athletic boosters club finances, receivables, payables, cash management, the school store, the audit, transportation, and financial assistance.
This position reports directly to the Head of School and works closely with the Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees. He or she is the primary contact for banking relationships, major vendors, and insurance providers.
Essential Responsibilities:
• Maintain accurate financial records, prepare periodic financial reports and statements to the Head of School, administrative team, and Board of Trustees.
• Ensure proper controls and record keeping and prepare financial records in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Monitor the use of all funds.
• Prepare, in conjunction with the Head of School, annual budgets and financial forecasts; make recommendations for setting annual tuition and fees to the Board of Trustees.
• Prepare financial records for an annual independent audit and assist the team in preparing tax returns.
• Manage banking and loan agreements/relationships; manage operational cash flow while optimizing investment income.
• Manage institutional risk and maintain appropriate levels of insurance to protect school property and cover the liabilities of the school, its employees, and the Board of Trustees.
• Oversee the financial aid process, including preparation of materials and compilation of data for the financial aid committee and ensure proper record keeping, notifications, and follow-up.
• Oversee payroll and benefits programs, including health insurance and retirement programs.
• Provide periodic reports throughout the year to department managers on YTD spending vs. Budget.
Qualifications & Personal Attributes:
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA, Master of Accounting, Finance, or other related advanced degree preferred.
• At least ten years of related experience at a non-profit or school ideal: experience at an independent school preferred.
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of effective fiscal management of an independent school, including GAAP.
• Represent the school in the larger community in a positive manner that reflects the values of the school.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, including the ability to build and maintain effective, professional relationships with board members, faculty, administrators, parents, students, alumni, and community partners.
• A self-starter, a leader who takes initiative and can handle multiple and complex projects simultaneously.
• Professional discretion, communication skills (especially in writing), attention to detail, and respect for confidentiality.
• A self-effacing sense of humor and a spirit of humility to learn and grow.
• Strong people, organizational and management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and QuickBooks required. Experience with FACTS preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
The salary and benefits will be commensurate with the chosen candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience, and ability to make an immediate impact on the community. GWA offers a range of competitive benefits, including 50% tuition remission for employee children.
Application Process
The application package must include the following:
• Cover letter that addresses the responsibilities of the position as well as the applicant’s qualifications and salary requirements.
• Resume
• At least four references with full contact information including email addresses (references will not be contacted without consent from applicant).
Interested persons should submit application packet (preferably as PDFs) to Erin Rose: [email protected].
Learn more at gwa.com
