Director of Accounting - CPA

Director Of Accounting (Cpa)The Academy Charter Schools offers an exceptional interdisciplinary curriculum in a technology rich environment that challenges students to explore connections across subjects and use experiential learning to bridge the gaps between theory and practice. The Academy's focus on character development and community service cultivates a student body poised to be active, engaged and responsible members of the community. The Academy employs a committed staff whose teaching and high academic and behavioral expectations will promote the excellence known so the community's children can achieve.The Director of Accounting (CPA) serves as a key financial leader within the charter school network, responsible for ensuring financial integrity, regulatory compliance, and strategic fiscal stewardship across multiple campuses.

This role oversees accounting operations, audit readiness, financial reporting, and internal controls while partnering closely with the Group Chief Financial Officer to support the network's mission of delivering high-quality public education. The ideal candidate brings strong accounting expertise and the ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights.RequirementsFinancial Management & ReportingOversee general ledger, month-end and year-end close processes across the networkPrepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statementsEnsure accurate tracking of restricted and unrestricted funds, including grants and public fundingMonitor cash flow, reserves, and financial sustainabilityCompliance, Audit & Regulatory OversightLead all external audits, including coordination with independent auditorsEnsure compliance with NYSED, SUNY Charter Schools Institute, federal, and state financial regulationsPrepare and submit required financial filings, reports, and disclosuresMaintain audit documentation and internal controls to ensure clean audit outcomesBudgeting & ForecastingSupport development and monitoring of annual operating and capital budgetsConduct variance analysis and provide recommendations to leadershipAssist with long-term financial planning, enrollment-based projections, and expansion modelingInternal Controls & Risk ManagementDesign, implement, and monitor internal accounting controls and best practicesEnsure segregation of duties and compliance with Board-approved fiscal policiesIdentify financial risks and recommend mitigation strategiesLeadership & CollaborationSupport Board Finance Committee meetings with reports and financial analysisMentor and support accounting staff, as applicableRequired Qualifications:Active CPA license (New York State)Bachelor's degree in accounting or financeMinimum 3-5 years of accounting experience, preferably in nonprofits or public sector.Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, and fund accountingProficiency in Abila/MIP, accounting systems and ExcelCore Competencies:High level of integrity and discretionStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholdersDetail-oriented with excellent organizational skillsCollaborative leadership mindset aligned to a mission-driven organizationWorking Conditions:Position is primarily based on Long Island with periodic travel between school sitesSome evening or occasional weekend work may be required during audits or reporting cyclesPay Transparency: The salary for this role is $160,000 - $180,000. Base pay offered may vary within the posted range based on several factors, including but not limited to education, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location.The Academy is committed to pursuing and hiring a diverse workforce and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.