Job Description
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER ROWAN - SALISBURY SCHOOLS POSITION SUMMARY The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as the senior financial executive of the Rowan-Salisbury school district. The CFO is responsible for providing strategic financial leadership that supports and advances the district's educational mission. The role oversees and manages an integrated system to plan fiscal needs, ensure appropriate accounting for all receipts and disbursements, make sound investments of cash balances, and Reports to the Superintendent.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - In accordance with generally accepted principles of governmental accounting, the rules and regulations of the State Board of Education, and the rules and regulations of the NC Local Government Commission, manages the district's financial affairs, including budgeting, purchasing, accounting, payroll, accounts payable, internal audit, fixed assets, individual school treasurer functions, insurance, and ACA reporting.
- Advises the superintendent and board on the financial implications of policy decisions, collective bargaining (if applicable), and strategic initiatives.
- Adheres to the Chart of Accounts mandated for school district use by the Local Government Commission and the Department of Public Instruction
- Issues pre-audit certificates required under N.C.G.S. §115C-441.
- Signs and issues all checks, drafts, and state warrants for the district.
- Develops and presents the annual operating budget to the superintendent and Board of Education.
- Prepares financial statements, reports, and analyses for the board, superintendent, NCDPI, and the Local Government Commission.
- Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations, including Title I, IDEA, and other federal grant programs.
- Oversees the financial management of all grants, capital projects, and special revenue funds.
- Supervises and develops finance department personnel, including payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and purchasing.
- Provides financial oversight for school nutrition services, transportation operations, and other ancillary programs.
- Coordinates the annual external audit and ensure timely resolution of audit findings.
- Trains school-based administrators and directors on fiscal management.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or related field from an accredited institution or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, accounting, or business administration.
- Understanding of how North Carolina school districts operate, state and federal statutes, policies and regulations impacting financial operations.
- Demonstrated knowledge of governmental accounting principles (GAAP/GASB).
- Experience managing budgets of $100+ million.
- Experience presenting financial information to governing boards or elected officials.
- Must meet requirements for certification as a School Business Administrator according to policy of the State Board of Education.
- Must qualify for a performance bond.
- Possess strong communication skills, and be able to explain financial procedures to non-financially-minded individuals.
- Be a team player who fosters a spirit of professionalism and collaboration within the district and with local community partners.
- Attendance at all Board of Education meetings.
- Ability to travel frequently within the district and outside of the district.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - CPA, SFO (ASBO), or Certified Government Finance Officer (GFOA) certification.
- Master's degree (MBA, MPA, or MAcc).
- Prior experience as a finance officer, CFO, or comptroller in a K-12 school district or public-sector organization.
- Deep understanding of how North Carolina school districts operate, state and federal statutes, policies and regulations impacting financial operations Experience with North Carolina school finance regulations, NCDPI reporting requirements, and the NC Local Government Commission.
How to apply: For confidential consideration, apply through TalentEd or submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Ashley Duggins, Director of Talent Acquisition, via email dugginsac@rss.k12.nc.us. Candidate review will begin on July 1, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.
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Local area