Director - Accounting

ROLE AND PURPOSE:  Direct and manage the operations of the Accounting department, including Accounts Payable, developing and coordinating accounting processes, and implementing procedures for the District in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, State & Federal guidelines, and local policy. Assist the Executive Director of Financial Services by applying knowledge of those same guidelines. Oversee all aspects of the accounting process.

QUALIFICATIONS:   

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor's degree in business, accounting, finance or a related field from an accredited institution
• Certification by the Texas Association of School Business Officials or a Master's of Business Administration degree

Experience:

• Demonstrated understanding and knowledge of accounting and accounts payable procedures
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in cooperation with district staff
• Three to five years of experience in school business management or related business

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and fund accounting
• Knowledge of Texas public school accounting requirements preferred
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations and guidelines regarding school district operations and grant management preferred
• Ability to use software to develop spreadsheets and perform data analysis
• Ability to interpret data and make recommendations
• Ability to develop and evaluate innovative business practices that promote efficiency of operations
• Excellent communication, problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:  

I. INSTRUCTIONAL MANAGEMENT

• Develop, analyze, and make available accounting information required to evaluate the financial aspects of the educational process.
• Furnish principals and other administrators with the accounting information necessary for them to manage the finances of their respective campuses and departments.
• Oversee the District's Fiduciary Funds (Activity Accounts), including annual revisions to the Campus Accounting Manual, monitoring and reviewing monthly reports.

II. SCHOOL/ORGANIZATION CLIMATE

• Apply excellent public relations skills when working with school and other District personnel.
• Maintain a high level of integrity and service at all times.
• Train school and other District personnel regarding school business and financial management.

III. ADMINISTRATION AND FISCAL/FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

• Continually evaluate accounting procedures for efficiency and make recommendations for change when necessary.
• Monitor general ledger accounts to verify accurate accounting of financial transactions.
• Review and approve all general journal entries.
• Manage the Capital Asset system to help safeguard the District's capital assets.
• Act as liaison between the independent auditors and Financial Services for all audits.
• Annually create a Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and other financial reports that accurately present the District's financial position.
• Oversee accurate reporting and compliance for grants and state programs, including periodic expenditure reporting.

IV. SCHOOL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS

• Attend and participate in district, state, and national activities that address policies and improvements in governmental accounting.
• Provide principals and administrators with appropriate accounting data and reports contributing to the site-based management process.
• Attend and provide valuable input at Board of Trustee meetings, as required.
• Conduct accounting training sessions for campus administration and department directors.
• Request input from schools and departments regarding accounting processes and procedures improvements.

V. PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT

• Direct and assist accounting staff with accounting operations throughout the fiscal year.
• Supervise and evaluate the performance of assigned staff.
• Define, develop, review, and revise job descriptions for the Accounting department, as needed.
• Develop training options and/or improvement plans for staff to ensure the best operation of the department. Formulate an annual professional development plan for assigned staff.

VI. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT            

• Attend the monthly Financial Services Staff meeting and conduct staff meetings with the Accounting department.
• Participate in membership and attend local, state, and national meetings, as necessary, to obtain current information relative to the department operations.
• Formulate an annual professional development plan with the Executive Director of Financial Services.
• Observe professional and ethical standards in accordance with generally accepted community standards and the Texas Education Agency code of ethics.
• Use information and insights from assessment instruments, district appraisal process, evaluative feedback from supervisors, and professional development programs to improve performance.
• Encourage staff members to participate in professional growth activities.
• Occasional overnight travel is required.

VII. MISCELLANEOUS

• Perform other duties as assigned by law, the Chief Financial Officer and/or Executive Director of Financial Services or as necessary for job efficiency and effectiveness.

VIII. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supervise and evaluate the performance of assigned personnel.

IX. WORKING CONDITIONS:

       MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computers and peripherals; standard instructional equipment.
• Posture: Moderate standing; occasional kneeling, squatting, bending, and stooping
• Motion: Moderate walking
• Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)
• Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress, with frequent interruptions.