Director of Finance (Immediate)

Director of Finance, Brooklyn, New York 

In-Person Work Required 

This is an exempt position and is not eligible for overtime. 

WHO WE ARE 

Explore Schools is a network of public charter schools providing nearly 2,000 students in Brooklyn with the outstanding education they deserve. Our goal is to provide students with curriculum and instruction that is both standards-aligned and culturally responsive. Our approach is designed to provide the conditions that nurture students as critical thinkers and natural problem-solvers.  As an organization we are committed to engaging in work that disrupts and roots out systems and structures that perpetuate white supremacy. We intentionally seek to build and maintain a diverse and talented team that reflects the backgrounds and experiences of our students and creates an inclusive environment for all employees. 
 

WHAT WE BELIEVE 

We believe that all children can learn when immersed in a rich environment full of high expectations, rigorous academics, and caring, committed adults. We believe equity and excellence are not mutually exclusive—we can meet the needs of all students in our schools, while actively engaging parents and driving toward excellent academic results. We envision a pathway to equity that features outstanding curriculum and instruction as well as ample opportunities for students to achieve success in and out of the classroom. We believe it is both our privilege and responsibility to help close the opportunity gap in the Brooklyn community. 

WHO YOU ARE 

Explore Schools is seeking a seasoned finance leader with at least 5 years of experience in nonprofit finance, preferably within a charter school environment. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with exceptional organizational and prioritization skills. You excel at managing complex processes and meeting deadlines, with a keen eye for detail. Problem-solving and applying strong analytical skills in time-sensitive situations come naturally to you. 

Additionally, you possess the following qualities: 

• Passionate about working in historically underserved and under-resourced communities. 

• Committed to equity, engaging in identity work to lead your team thoughtfully. 

• Adaptable, providing strategic solutions when faced with challenges or changes. 

• An exceptional communicator who shares information clearly and sensitively. 

• Detail-oriented and highly organized. 

• Preferably have 5-8 years of experience in Finance or Accounting, with prior work as an Assistant Controller in a non-profit organization. 

• Master’s degree (required), preferably in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration. This can be substituted with additional years of experience along with certifications in the finance/account field.  

WHAT YOU’LL DO 

As the Director of Finance (DF), you will lead and manage day-to-day financial operations for the Explore Network in partnership with the Managing Director of Finance (MDF). Your role involves supervising the finance and centralized purchasing functions while ensuring compliance with financial regulations, including public grant management, audits, and reporting to government agencies and the Board of Trustees. You'll collaborate closely with the MDF and Senior Finance Manager (SFM) to manage annual audits, IRS/OMB reporting, and the budgeting process. You’ll also ensure compliance with internal policies and external requirements, such as those of the NYC Department of Education, the State, and federal agencies. 

You will be responsible for: 

Budget Planning & Financial Management 

• Assist the Managing Director of Finance and Senior Leadership Team in developing the annual budgets for schools and network office.  

• Monitor budgets with school leadership and MDF, ensuring targets are met, overages are anticipated, and resources are used efficiently. 

• Oversee the processing and management of semi-monthly payroll operations for schools and ESI, ensuring timely and accurate payroll disbursements & funding of 403(b) accounts. 

• Ensure compliance with all relevant payroll tax laws, regulations, and reporting requirements with local and state authorities. 

• Review and approve vendors and payment batches, ensuring compliance with internal controls and accounting standards. 

• Manage cash flow by monitoring disbursements and identifying opportunities for improving liquidity. 

Financial Compliance & Reporting 

• Ensure that the books are closed and reconciled monthly.  

• Collaborate with the Managing Director of Finance to prep