Chief Financial and Operations Officer

Yellowstone Schools

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree (e.g., MBA, CPA) preferred
• Proven experience (typically 7+ years) in financial management, budgeting, and strategic planning, preferably in an educational or public sector environment
• Strong understanding of financial systems, regulations, and best practices
• Demonstrated leadership skills with a track record of leading and developing high-performing teams
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and navigate complex organizational challenges

 

Organizational Overview

Founded in 2001 and rooted in the Christian faith, Yellowstone Schools collectively educates 600 children in Pre-K through 10th grade and will grow a grade each year to serve 12th grade by 2026. Yellowstone partners with students and families—regardless of financial means—to provide a life-changing education, develop a strong moral foundation, and prepare scholars for life beyond high school. The K-12 campus is located in the Third Ward, one of Houston's oldest historically Black neighborhoods.

 

Most students served live in communities without access to strong educational opportunities. With classes ranging in size from 16 to 22, our students experience a rich academic and co-curricular model while receiving bus transportation, two meals a day, and access to a comprehensive student support program.

 

Yellowstone Schools consists of a cooperative of two school systems: a lower school (a private Christian school serving PreK-5th grade) and an upper school (a tuition-free, public charter school growing to serve 6th-12th grade). The lower school and upper school are distinct legal and financial entities with separate governing boards. The name Yellowstone Schools reflects each school system’s shared mission, vision, values, culture, and leadership. Each school complies with all applicable federal and state laws.

 

Position Overview

The Chief of Finance and Operations plays a crucial role in overseeing the financial and operational functions of the school district. This executive position requires strategic leadership, financial acumen, and operational expertise to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the district's administrative and financial systems

 

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management

• Develop and implement financial strategies, policies, and procedures to maintain fiscal stability and transparency
• Manage the district's budget, including forecasting revenue and expenses, monitoring financial performance, and providing regular financial reports to stakeholders
• Oversee financial audits, compliance with regulatory requirements, and risk management initiatives
• Collaborate with stakeholders to secure funding, grants, and partnerships to support the district's financial objectives

 

Operational Leadership

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for all operational areas, including facilities management, transportation, food services, and technology infrastructure
• Ensure the efficient and cost-effective delivery of services to support educational programs and student needs
• Develop and implement policies and procedures related to operational functions, compliance, and safety standards
• Lead and support cross-functional teams to improve operational efficiency, quality, and customer service

 

Strategic Planning and Analysis

• Contribute to the development of the district's strategic plan by providing financial and operational insights and recommendations
• Conduct data analysis and benchmarking to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align financial and operational goals with the district's mission, vision, and priorities

 

Team Management and Development

• Lead a team of finance, operations, and administrative professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the finance and operations department
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across all aspects of finance and operations management

 

Competencies and Attributes

• Self-motivated,  self-directed, and a quick learner
• Excellent attention to detail
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Strong knowledge of systems, regulations, and finance best practice
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic and evolving school environment
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic setting

 

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Work requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to lift and carry items up to 15 pounds, to walk short distances, and drive a vehicle to deliver and pick up materials and meet candidates.

 

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Yellowstone Schools offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical (including HSA), dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings options, $50K employer-paid life insurance, supplemental life ( short-term disability insurance, cancer, hospital, accident), EAP, wellness day off and generous paid time off program, and 10-weeks paid parental leave.

 

Additional benefits include professional development opportunities, meaningful work contributing to the education and well-being of students, and a collaborative and supportive work environment.

 

Apply for this Position

To apply for this position, please submit a resume, cover letter, and references to the HR Department at Yellowstone Schools at hr@yellowstoneschools.org.  Yellowstone will notify candidates if they are selected for the next round of the application process. The process will include participating in a comprehensive interview process and teaching a sample lesson on campus.

Yellowstone does not refuse to hire, terminate, or otherwise discriminate against any individual with respect to compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because of race, color, sex, or national or ethnic origin.