Finance Director

  • ORGANIZATION
    Paw Paw Public Schools
  • LOCATION
    Paw Paw, MI
  • SALARY
    $102,000 - $138,000
summary
This position is responsible for directing the fiscal functions of the school district in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and school district policy.  This includes financial analysis, internal and external reporting, cash management, budgeting leadership, financial accounting, financial forecasting, purchasing, contract administration, pupil accounting, payroll, and fringe benefits.  This position will also be responsible for supervising business office personnel and will serve on the Superintendent’s Leadership Team with a central role in school district planning and analysis of current programs and support systems. 

MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT: 

Dear Prospective Finance Director Candidate,

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Paw Paw Public Schools, where our vision is to be united with our community to build success, and our mission is to develop, support, challenge, and inspire every child for lifelong success.

Our district is comprised of six buildings:

Early Elementary (Grades K–2)
Later Elementary (Grades 3–5)
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
High School (Grades 9-12)
Cedar Street Alternative Education
Early Childhood Education Center (opening this year!)

Paw Paw Public Schools is currently in the midst of a bond initiative, approved by our voters in 2022, that is bringing significant improvements to every facility in the district. Our most exciting project is underway at the high school—a new multipurpose gym that will enhance both athletics and community events.

We take great pride in our district’s long-standing stable enrollment and strong financial health, with a healthy fund balance of approximately 26%. We are equally proud of our award-winning athletic programs, competitive robotics teams, and one of the finest fine arts programs in Van Buren County.

This is a remarkable time to join our team and become part of the Red Wolves family. As we continue to grow and strengthen our partnerships with the community, we look forward to welcoming a finance director who will share in our commitment to excellence, service, and student success.

Thank you for your interest in Paw Paw Public Schools. I look forward to learning more about your skills and vision, and how they align with our district’s mission.

Superintendent Jeremy Davison



Position Responsibilities
• Responsible for directing the fiscal functions of the school district in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and school district policy.
• Provides leadership to prepare and monitor all district budgets, including long-range financial planning in a collaborative approach with departmental leadership. 
• Prepare and oversee the preparation of monthly district financial reports and ensure they meet all local, state, and federal requirements including timely submission.
• Effectively communicate and work with the Board of Education and other Committees of the Board regarding implementation and education relating to school finance issues.
• Participate in management of business office personnel including human resources, contracted services, food service, pupil accounting, and employee negotiations.
• Other duties as assigned by the Superintendent.

Qualifications
• This position requires knowledge normally acquired through a Bachelor’s Degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Preferred three (3) years minimum of related job experience or expertise in accounting or applied financial leadership is required. Previous experience in a school environment is preferred. 
• A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is preferred but not required.
• Possess or willing to obtain the Michigan School Business Officials Chief Financial Officer Certification. 


Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Required
• Broad knowledge of financial budgeting, forecasting, and investing.
• Knowledge of software and operations of computerized financial accounting systems.
• Excellent financial and business acumen, with the ability to quickly assimilate numbers and reports and provide well-reasoned, thoughtful, and succinct reports and recommendations. 
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate and manage effectively at multiple levels within the organization. 
• Strong problem solving, analytical, critical thinking and creative skills, and the ability to exercise sound judgment and make strategic planning decisions based on accurate and timely analyses. 
• Excellent oral and written communication and human relations skills.
• Ability to organize integrated systems and processes; ability to analyze and solve complex problems.
• Ability to meet all requirements necessary to satisfy state certification for the position.

Hiring Solutions LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Hiring Solutions LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.