Accounting & Finance Manager

Sector: Government / Education
Reports To: Director of Finance / CFO / Business Services Administrator
Supervises: Accounting staff, payroll, accounts payable/receivable (varies by organization)

Role Summary

The Accounting & Finance Manager is responsible for managing the daily financial operations of a public-sector or educational organization, ensuring compliance with government regulations, accounting standards, and funding requirements. This role oversees budgeting, financial reporting, audits, and internal controls while supporting transparent, accountable, and mission-driven financial practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage general ledger activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and month- and year-end close
• Ensure compliance with GASB, GAAP, and applicable federal, state, and local financial regulations
• Maintain internal controls and financial policies to ensure fiscal integrity and audit readiness
• Prepare, monitor, and manage annual operating and capital budgets
• Perform budget-to-actual analysis and provide variance explanations
• Support long-range financial planning, enrollment projections, and funding scenarios
• Partner with department leaders to ensure responsible budget management
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports
• Coordinate external audits and respond to audit findings
• Ensure compliance with restricted funds, grants, categorical funding, and bond proceeds
• Prepare regulatory reports required by oversight agencies (state, federal, or accrediting bodies)
• Manage accounts payable and receivable functions
• Ensure timely payments, billing, and collections in accordance with public-sector rule
• Collaborate with HR, procurement, academic departments, and executive leadership
• Provide financial guidance and training to non-financial managers
• Support board, council, or governing body presentations as needed

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• Minimum 5+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience
• Experience in governmental, public-sector, nonprofit, or educational finance
• Strong knowledge of fund accounting, budget management, and financial reporting
• Advanced proficiency with financial systems and Excel