Budget and Finance Manager

Girard College is a full scholarship boarding school that fosters intellectual curiosity, social development, and emotional growth in academically focused students from underserved communities. We ensure every student the opportunity and the means to achieve excellence and preparation for advanced education through purposeful academic and residential programs.

Summary of Position – The Budget Officer for Girard College is responsible, in collaboration with the financial team of Girard Estate, for the development, management and ongoing support of the school’s budget. The position reports to the Vice President of Operations of Girard College, and works closely with the Girard Estate Controller and finance team, and other key stakeholders to ensure that the school has the resources it needs to achieve its mission and goals.

Responsibilities: 

• Provide direction and budget oversight of the college’s $30+M budget

• Work with the leadership team at Girard to develop, implement, and manage the school's budget, including the annual operating and capital budgets.

• Ensure internal budget and accounting controls, policies, and procedures are effective and followed across the College.

• Lead budget forecasting, track spending and expenditures to ensure alignment with the approved budget.

• Direct the annual budgeting process that is aligned with the College’s strategic goals. 

• See that requisitions, invoices, periodic budget reports and all other budget and accounting documents are prepared timely and accurately,

• Provide budget training and support to staff and faculty as needed. 

•  Collaborates with Girard Estate on all budgetary recommendations and reporting. Reviews budget and accounting reports for accuracy and completeness  

• Oversee all budget operations, including accounting, billing, collections, and financial reporting.

• Prepare month-end financial reports including both operating and capital expense summaries, variance analysis and department KPI reports.

• Maintain, and develop where necessary, compliance systems, federal and state grant processes, and risk management. 

• Partner with the appropriate departments on application development and monitoring processes for federal, state, and private grants.

• Prepare financial and compliance reports for grants.

• Develop and maintain a compliance calendar. 

• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and laws, including tax laws and reporting requirements.

Competencies

• Demonstrates strong acumen in budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and accurate preparation of financial reports and documentation

• Ensures effective internal controls, compliance with policies, and sound financial stewardship across the organization

• Communicates information clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders; provides budget guidance and training as needed

• Builds strong, collaborative relationships and operates with a “one-team” mindset focused on institutional and student success

• Exhibits high approachability, professionalism, and diplomacy when working with students, parents, faculty, administrators, and vendors

• Maintains composure under pressure, demonstrates adaptability, and responds effectively to changing needs and priorities

• Ensures efficient, accurate execution of financial processes while maintaining strong attention to detail and accountability

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in budget management and/or accounting in a non-profit or educational setting.

• Strong understanding of financial regulations and laws.

• Experience with budgeting and financial forecasting.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficient in all Microsoft Office products, especially Excel.

• Strong leadership and management skills.

• Ability to work well in a team environment.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Experience with fundraising and development is a plus